There are three things to consider, each is distinct, one is completely illegal in this country.Originally Posted by joeyfcuk
ive bin readin up on gettin it flashed but its a bit confusing
1) Flashing - is the replacement of a handsets firmware (operating system, think Windows XP for example). Doing this you can remove the operator's branding and go back to the original firmware that the manufacturer created.
2) Unlocking - this is removing the SP (Service Provider) Lock, or rather zeroing it so that the handset will accept a SIM from any SP.
3) IMEI Changing - the IMEI is the unique identifier of the handset, there are no legal duplicates in the world. When a handset is blacklisted it is the IMEI that is recorded in the trans-national database. Any nation's operator that subscribes to the database will refuse a network connection by a blacklisted IMEI. As with all things electronic it is mostly (but not always) possible to change the IMEI of a handset. But here's the rub - in the UK it is completely illegal. It is even illegal to own the software that would permit you to change an IMEI, even if you don't intend to actually use it, the crime is having it in your posession.
Mob453 has it right - and unfortunately you are on particularly weak ground as you could also be in the possession of stolen goods, regardless if you paid for it or not - yet another crime!
If you got the handset on eBay you've probably got some redress and can get your money back. Anywhere else and it all gets a bit tricky....
