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Don't Get Cheated.
These are the two most common ways buyers in Accra lose money on phones. Learn how to spot them before you pay.
The Two Big Traps
Bad Battery
The phone looks fine when you first use it. But the battery is already damaged. Within weeks, it drains fast, overheats, and may even swell up.
Heat Test
Turn the screen brightness all the way up for 3 minutes. If the phone gets very hot, the battery is bad. A little warmth is normal — serious heat is not.
Check the Edges
Look carefully around the sides of the phone. If you see any gap or the screen is slightly lifted, the battery is swelling inside. Walk away.
Hold It After Use
After a few minutes of use, hold the phone. If it feels hot already, that battery is finished.
Locked or Stolen Phone
The phone works fine at the shop. But once you get home and connect it to your accounts or networks, it gets locked and you cannot use it. Your money is gone.
Check the IMEI
Dial *#06# and check the number at swapam.co/verify. If it comes back with any warning, do not buy that phone.
Try to Log In
Ask to log into a Google or Apple account on the phone. If it refuses or asks for a previous owner's password, that phone is locked.
Download an App
Try to download a free app from the App Store or Play Store. If it blocks you, there is a restriction on that device.
What They Say
& What To Reply
DEALER
"That verification thing doesn't work."
YOU
No problem — if the phone is clean, it will pass. Let's check it together right now.
DEALER
"I can remove the lock for you."
YOU
That is only possible with the original owner's account. I need a phone that is already unlocked.
DEALER
"The battery is perfectly fine."
YOU
Then let's do a quick test — full brightness for 3 minutes. If it's fine, it will pass easily.
DEALER
"This is the normal price."
YOU
I checked on SwapAm. The price for this model is different. Let's talk about that.
DEALER
"I don't know the IMEI offhand."
YOU
It's on every phone — just dial *#06#. I need to see it before we go any further.
Stop & Walk Away
The screen has gaps or is lifting at the edges
The phone gets hot within a few minutes of use
The IMEI comes back flagged on SwapAm
The dealer refuses to show you the IMEI
They say 'don't bother verifying, just trust me'
You cannot log into accounts or download apps
The price is too far below the market rate
No box, no receipt, no proof of purchase
The phone freezes, restarts, or behaves strangely
If something feels off, it probably is.
There are plenty of good phones in Accra. Don't force a bad deal.
Now Verify & Price Check
Use what you have learned. Check the IMEI and ask SwapAm about the price before you hand over any money.