How to Unblacklist an iPad and Sell It (Tips and Things You Should Know)

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By Ash Turner
As CEO of CompareMyMobile.com and BankMyCell.com since 2009, Ash has been a pivotal figure in the mobile tech industry. With a background in managing Brightstar’s PhoneRecycleBank, he boasts extensive experience with global carriers and MVNOs like T-Mobile and O2, and leading manufacturers such as Apple and Samsung.

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| Updated on May 23, 2024
Fact Checked By
Marlene Centeno
Marlene specializes in creating comprehensive guides for smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches from leading brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google, demonstrating a deep understanding of these technologies.

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Edited By
Kim Juanillo
Kim, an editor with a rich background in digital content management and developmental psychology, brings a unique blend of analytical and creative skills to BankMyCell. With her background in Psychology, Kim is adept at understanding complex concepts and transforming them into engaging, accessible content.

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  • A blacklisted iPad can’t use cellular or SIM services. Discover how to remove the blacklist through carriers or professional help, restoring its full use and value.
  • Being stuck with a blacklisted iPad limits its functionality and disconnects you from cellular services. Our guide offers free and paid solutions to unblacklist your device, enabling you to bypass these restrictions and reclaim your iPad’s usability.
  • A blacklisted iPad may appear to have no value. However, by comparing offers from companies that purchase blacklisted iPads, you can recover some value and possibly upgrade to a newer iPad.

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SOLVED: How to Unblacklist Your iPad

HOW TO: Check Blacklist Status

To unblacklist your iPad you first need to confirm the reason your iPad was blacklisted. To do this you need to check the IMEI of the device. Start off by finding your iPads IMEI number:

  1. Flip the device over and find the engraved text on the back
  2. The IMEI is written in this section

Then check the device’s IMEI on IMEI Pro or IMEI 24:

  1. Input the iPad’s IMEI number in the search bar
  2. Click Check
  3. Review feedback

Your iPad may be on blacklist status due to reasons such as being reported lost, stolen, or having an unpaid balance with the mobile carrier. Read more below

HOW TO: Unlock Blacklisted iPad

Free Options:

Contact Your Mobile Network Carrier:

If your device has been blacklisted due to an unpaid balance, inquire whether there is a way to settle the balance and have the blacklist removed

Contact the Previous Owner:

If the previous owner blacklisted the device by reporting it as lost or stolen, then unfortunately the carrier will be unable to remove or unlock the blacklisted phone. Your only solution would be to contact the previous owner and get them to remove the bad status.

Paid Options:

Use a Blacklist Removal Service:

Third-party blacklist removal service like IMEI Authority, DirectUnlocks, or ExpressUnlocks. These services are not free and they also do not guarantee removal if you can’t prove that you own the phone.

Can’t unlock your iPad? That’s okay you can still sell your iPad to earn you extra cash, help upgrade you to a new iPad, and clear clutter.

HOW TO: Sell a Blacklisted iPad

If you’ve followed all the steps to remove the blacklist from iPad and you are still unable to unlock the device you can sell the device here on BankMyCell. A blacklisted device will return you significantly lower cash than an unlocked one, however, in unresolvable cases any return is better than nothing!

To sell a blacklisted iPad follow these steps:

  1. Find your device and select the “Blacklisted” status
  2. Choose storage and condition.
  3. Select a store, ship for free, and get paid.
Compare iPad Trade-in Deals

Is Your iPad a Blacklisted Device?

If you find yourself unable to make calls or send texts with your iPad, despite everything being in order with your device and app settings, it’s a strong indicator that your iPad may be blacklisted. Blacklisting occurs when the device’s owner reports it as stolen to the original network provider, such as Sprint, Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile.

Additionally, legal authorities can initiate blacklisting in response to theft reports. It’s important to note that the decision to blacklist a lost device rests with the customer. This policy applies to all devices, including both Apple and Android. However, it’s crucial to understand that device manufacturers, like Apple, do not have the authority to blacklist devices; the network carriers solely control this.

Try these steps to check if your iPad is blacklisted:

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Tap on General
  3. Tap About
  4. Look for the “IMEI” or “MEID” number > Write it down.
  5. Open IMEI24.com or IMEI.info. on your web browser
  6. Enter the IMEI or MEID number into the tool > Click Check
  7. Wait for the results > If the device is blacklisted, the tool will display a message indicating that the device is reported lost, stolen, or has outstanding payments.

Why is my iPad on Blacklist Status?

Your iPad can be blacklisted for several reasons, affecting its ability to connect to mobile networks. This status can occur if the iPad is reported lost, stolen, or if there’s an unpaid balance on the carrier account.

Being blacklisted means the iPad’s International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number is flagged, preventing connection to mobile networks until the issue is resolved.

Risks of Keeping a Carrier Blacklisted iPad

While there may be times when a service provider can unlock an iPad’s blacklisted IMEI status (when the rightful owner of the iPad can verify ownership), blacklisting is often permanent.

Here is a list of some potential disadvantages if your iPad is on the blacklist:

  • Functionality loss: One of the most serious concerns of keeping a network-banned iPad is the loss of functionality. The iPad may be unable to connect to the carrier’s network, preventing you from making calls or accessing the internet via cellular data. Furthermore, several apps or features may not function properly without a cellular connection.
  • Potential security risks: The major security risk associated with using a blacklisted iPad is that it was obtained illegally, which could result in legal ramifications for the user. Furthermore, these devices may have weak security features, such as a deactivated iCloud lock, Apple ID, or Find My iPad feature, allowing a potential thief access to sensitive data saved on the iPad.
  • Depreciating value: Ultimately, iPads put on the blacklist by network operators lose a lot of value because it is basically unusable. A potential buyer will not want to purchase an iPad that cannot connect to a cellular network. As a result, you may end up with a device with no resale value.

How To Unlock a Blacklisted iPad (Free & Paid Options)

Free Options

Contact your carrier: Reach out to your carrier with your iPad’s IMEI number to discuss removing the blacklist status due to unpaid balances or reports of loss/theft.

  • AT&T: Visit AT&T Support, select “Wireless,” then “Bill & account” for contact options.
  • Verizon: Go to Verizon Support, choose “Mobile,” then “Billing and payments” to chat or request a call.
  • T-Mobile: Navigate to T-Mobile Contact, find the “Payment” section, and use the provided phone number.

Use a Blacklist Removal Service: Be cautious of scams. Some reputable services offer free trials or basic services for blacklist removal. Research and read reviews before proceeding. Examples include IMEI Authority, DirectUnlocks, or ExpressUnlocks.

Paid Options

Clear Unpaid Bills: Directly settle any outstanding carrier bills to remove the blacklist status. Contact your carrier or pay through their website or app.

  • Verizon: Pay online via the My Verizon app, by calling 1-800-922-0204, or in-store.
  • AT&T: Settle bills online, through the AT&T app, by calling 1-800-331-0500, or at an AT&T store.
  • T-Mobile: Pay through your account online, through the T-Mobile app, by calling 1-877-453-1304, or in a T-Mobile store.

Professional Unlock Services: Use reputable third-party blacklist removal services for complex issues like iCloud activation locks. Research and choose services with positive reviews for a safe and effective unlock. Examples include IMEI Authority, DirectUnlocks, or ExpressUnlocks.

How to Sell a Blacklisted iPad

Yes, highly trusted buyback companies will buy your blacklisted iPad for up to $850. You can get an upfront quote, free shipping, and payment by check, PayPal, or Direct Deposit.

Simply follow these steps to sell your iPad:

  1. Begin by searching or looking for your iPad model here.
  2. Enter ‘Blacklisted’ in the filters for a quick quote.
  3. Send it for free using the label provided by the buyback store.
  4. Get payment by cheque, PayPal, or direct deposit.
Value My Blacklisted iPad

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I check if my iPad has been blacklisted?

You can determine if your iPad has been blocked or blacklisted by checking its IMEI status on websites such as IMEI24.com or IMEI.info. Enter your device’s unique IMEI number to check its status by dialing *#06# on your iPad. If you discover your iPad is blacklisted and are considering selling it, BankMyCell can help you find buyers interested in blacklisted devices, ensuring you still have options to sell your iPad.

Can I still use Wi-Fi on my blacklisted devices like my iPad?

You can still use your wireless internet on a blacklisted iPad, but it’s cellular capabilities may be restricted or disabled. This in turn means you generally won’t be able to make calls or use mobile data services.

How to unblacklist an iPad in the USA and is it legal?

You can contact your carrier, settle any outstanding balances, and use blacklist removal businesses that offer both free trials and paid services. An unlock service solution may be legal if you prove you own the device mentioned on the blacklist and address the original reason for blacklisting. It will be carried out by mobile networks instead of services offering illegal hardware replacement.