Second-hand phones are everywhere in Ghana. Buy carefully.
Non-Negotiable Tests
- Call
*#06#and note IMEI — match box/tray if available - Test calls, mobile data, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, speakers, mics
- Camera (front/rear) + flash
- Charging with your cable and theirs
- Biometrics (Face ID / fingerprint) enrol and unlock
- Battery health indicators where available
- Check for iCloud / Google FRP locks — phone should erase and set up with your account
IMEI primer: How to Check Your Phone IMEI.
Box authenticity: Spot a Fake Smartphone Box.
Scam Patterns
| Pattern | Risk |
|---|---|
| “Pay to the rider” without seeing device | High |
| Price far below market | Stolen / switched / locked |
| Seller rushes you | Hidden faults |
| “iCloud unlock service” included | Often nonsense |
Price Reality
Compare the same storage/RAM variant across several listings. Factor battery replacement cost into “cheap” iPhones.
FAQ
Factory reset before buying?
Seller should demonstrate reset and that activation works without previous owner account.
Cash or MoMo?
Public meetup + confirm device works before final payment.
Related
Sources / Verify With
- Official battery health screens
- Operator/police processes for stolen device reports where applicable
Original Sen Gideons News Studio buyer’s guide. Not legal advice.