Buying a Second-Hand Phone in Singapore
Carousell is where most second-hand phones change hands in Singapore, along with Facebook Marketplace and phone shops. Online purchase scams on these platforms are among the most reported scams in Singapore, so the safest deals happen face to face, with the phone tested first.
Where people buy used phones in Singapore
- Carousell: Carousell Protection covers eligible purchases paid through the app with delivery. Cash meet-ups have no protection.
- Facebook Marketplace: No buyer protection. Meet in person.
- Phone shops (Sim Lim Square, malls): Usually offer a short shop warranty. Get it in writing.
Check it isn’t stolen or blocked
There is no free public IMEI blacklist lookup in Singapore. Check the number from *#06# with our IMEI checker, make sure it matches the box and Settings, and make a call with your own SIM before paying.
Carrier locks and network compatibility
Phones sold in Singapore are generally unlocked. Test with your own SIM, and for imported phones make sure the model supports 4G calling on your telco.
Your rights
The Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act and the Lemon Law apply to purchases from businesses, not to private sellers. Private sales are as is.
Common scams in Singapore
- Sellers who ask for payment by bank transfer or PayNow before delivery, then disappear.
- Fake “Carousell” or delivery links sent by chat to collect card details.
- iCloud or Google account lock left on.
- Refurbished phones sold as new.
Paying safely
Meet in person, test the phone, then pay. If you need delivery, use Carousell’s protected checkout. Never click payment links sent in chat.
Test the hardware before you pay
- Open mxmob.com/check on the phone itself and tap Test all. It checks the screen, touch, speakers, microphone, cameras, sensors, buttons, charging and Wi-Fi in about 10 minutes, with no app.
- Dial *#06# and compare the IMEI with the box and Settings, then run the check above.
- Watch the seller sign out of iCloud or Google and reset the phone.
- Check battery health (iPhone: Settings › Battery › Battery Health) and look for replaced parts.
- Put your SIM in and make a call.
The full list is in the used phone checklist.
FAQ
How do I avoid Carousell phone scams?
Meet in person and test the phone before paying, or pay only through Carousell’s protected checkout. Never pay by bank transfer up front or use links sent in chat.
Can I check if a phone is stolen in Singapore?
There’s no free public lookup. Check the IMEI matches the box, make sure the seller signs out of iCloud or Google in front of you, and ask for the receipt.
Does the Lemon Law cover second-hand phones?
It covers goods bought from a business, including second-hand shops, but not purchases from a private person.