Tutorial: How to Purchase Used Phones off of Kijiji – We-Lectronics

Hi everyone,
Firstly, we thank everyone who likes our We-Lectronics facebook page. We really appreciate it!
Many customers have been asking so we are going to post a quick tutorial on how to purchase a used phone off of Kijiji, Craigslist or any similar in person deal. When buying used there is always a risk but we hope we can help to minimize these risks for you.

1. Understand the terminology
It can be easy to get lost under the weather of tech terminology but if you quickly educate yourself of the basic terms related to cell phones you will find it much easier when purchasing your phone.
ie. Phone Unlocked: This means that the phone can be used on any network. Typically unlocked phones are worth more (especially iphones) and sellers will claim unlocked when really it is not, this is why you check it with an active sim card.
* Note: Even though some phones are unlocked, sometimes hardware is not compatible with certain networks (ie. Wind)
ie. Phone is Locked: This means the opposite, that the phone will only work on the carrier it is locked to.
ie. Active Sim: This is a fully functional sim able to make calls, texts etc. You are paying for a service from your carrier.

2. Always bring an active sim card and make a test call
With the national blacklist in effect, people may be desperate to sell their unusable blacklisted phones for quick profit. To prevent this and to check for all other problems (earpiece, speakers etc.) always bring an active sim card or talk to the seller before to make sure they do.
* Note: Keep in mind the size of your sim card which you have and what is accepted in the phone you are purchasing. There are three: regular, micro, nano

3. Inspect the Phone Carefully
this means to check for any cracks, non-functioning buttons, water damage etc. no indicated by the seller. This is very important because it is easy to miss an issue and you are left to deal with it.
We like to check: earpiece, speakers, touch screen functionality, side and home buttons, charging port, connection to the network, camera. If you are unable to actually use the phone (ie. Iphone on activation menu), it may be worth your time to activate it or alternatively you can message the seller to make sure it is usable prior to showing up.

Always remember when something seems to good to be true it usually is. Always use your brain when buying a used phone and act smart. Its better to be cautious then to be out hard earned cash.

Here are useful links:
1. National blacklist check: http://www.protectyourdata.ca/check-the-status-of-your-dev…/
2. A list of the phones we have for sale: http://kitchener.kijiji.ca/c-PostersOtherAds-W0QQUserIdZ859…
If you found this article helpful we would appreciate your feedback!
Thanks,
We-Lectronics