El ICC code of a SIM card It is a number that is necessary for many procedures related to mobile telephony. However, many people do not know how to access the ICC code without removing the SIM card from their device. This can be a problem for those who do not want to manipulate their device or who simply do not have the necessary tools to do so.
Fortunately, There are several ways to find out the ICC number without having to remove the SIM from your phone. From checking your phone's settings to using third-party applications, here we show you all the options available to obtain this valuable code in a simple and fast way.
What is the ICC number of a SIM card?
The ICC (International Circuit Card) number is a unique identifier that every SIM card in the world has. This code is essential for tasks such as perform portability, block the card in case of theft or loss, and other issues related to card identification at a global level. The code will typically consist of 19 digits, although In nano or triple-cut cards it can be composed of 15 digits.
The first few digits of the ICC code usually indicate that it is a telecom card, while other digits identify the country and operator. The rest of the numbers are used to uniquely identify the SIM card itself.
It is not uncommon to confuse the ICC number with the IMEI, but These numbers serve different purposesWhile the IMEI is a unique identifier for the device, the ICC is associated only with the SIM card.
What is the ICC number used for?
The ICC code is used for a variety of procedures and actions related to the mobile line. Knowing this code can be useful in situations such as:
- Portability:If you want to change operators while keeping your phone number, you will likely be asked for the ICC to verify that you are the owner of the line.
- Duplicate card:When you need a duplicate of your SIM, either due to damage or technological changes such as switching from a SIM to a MicroSIM or NanoSIM, having the ICC on hand will speed up the process.
- Blocking due to loss or theft:If your phone is stolen or lost, the ICC is crucial to enable the operator to block your SIM card and prevent misuse of your number.
- Protection against identity theft:In case someone has made a copy of your SIM, the ICC can help you prove that you are the rightful owner and block the duplicate card.
Locating the ICC on Android devices
On many Android phones, it is possible to check the ICC number directly from the system settings, without having to remove the SIM. The steps to follow may vary depending on the Android version or the manufacturer's customization layer, but in general, the procedure is as follows:
- Open the Settings of your mobile.
- Go to option About of the phone o Over the phone.
- Within this menu, click on SIM status o card status.
- Look for the option ICCID, where your SIM's ICC number will appear.
If your phone has a custom interface that doesn't display this option, you can directly search for the word 'ICCID' using the search bar in the settings. If it doesn't appear, don't worry, you can resort to using third-party applications that will show you this information.
Applications to know the ICC
If you can't find the option on your phone, there are several apps that can help you recover the ICC number without having to remove the SIM. These apps are available for both Android and iPhone:
- SIM Card Info for Android: This free application allows you to view not only the ICC, but also other important data such as the phone number, operator and network associated with your SIM card.
- SIM card on Google Play: Another free option that displays all the relevant data from your SIM card on screen.
- Sim Serial Number (ICCID): With this app you can easily copy and share the ICC number of your SIM card.
On iOS, there is no need to resort to external applications since this information can be viewed directly from the system options.
Locating the ICC on iPhone devices
In the case of phones with iOS, the operating system of the iPhone, it is much easier to access the ICC number directly from the phone settings, without the need for any external application. All you have to do is follow these steps:
- Go to Settings on the iPhone.
- Choose General admission and then Information.
- Swipe down to the section physical SIM and look for the field with the name ICCID, where your SIM's ICC code will appear.
Other ways to find the ICC
In addition to the above options, there are other more traditional ways to find the ICC number, especially if you cannot access your phone at the moment or if you no longer have the SIM card in your possession.
- On the SIM itself: The ICC number is usually printed on the back of the SIM card, where the chip is. If you have the physical SIM on hand, simply take it out of the phone and check the number.
- In the SIM holder or mold:When you receive a new SIM card, it comes inside a plastic mould that protects it. Often, the ICC number is printed on this mould, right next to a barcode.
- In the operator documentation: In some cases, the ICC number also appears on the documentation you received when you purchased the SIM.
- Calling your operator: If you cannot access the ICC in any way, another option is to contact your operator and request the information. They have all this data in their system and will be able to provide it to you without any problem.
Another option is to access the customer area or use your operator's official app. Services such as Mi Orange or Movistar have options to check the ICC number directly from their user panels.
Is ICC the same as IMEI?
A very common question is whether the ICC code is the same as IMEI, and the answer is no. Although both are identifiers, their functions are very different. The IMEI is related only to the mobile device, while the ICC is the number that identifies the SIM card worldwide.
Having both numbers on hand can be useful in situations such as theft or loss, as you can block both the phone (with the IMEI) and the SIM (with the ICC) to prevent misuse.