I also cannot make/receive calls but receive texts in Roaming

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mvop Author

Level 1

5 points

I also cannot make/receive calls but receive texts in Roaming

End of November 2024, JanMares posted about this before

I cannot make/receive calls but receive t… - Apple Community

After working perfectly for almost a year, I started to have the same issue, also in the end of November 2024.

Setup: iPhone Pro Max 15 with two eSims from two EU countries.

When in country 1, I can use eSim 1 without restrictions. I can also use Data and Texts with eSim 2 (which is roaming). I cannot make or receive voicecalls with eSim2.

When in country 2, I can use eSim 2 without restrictions. I can also use Data and Texts with eSim 1 (which is roaming). I cannot make or receive voicecalls with eSim1.

The Network operators from both countries say all is well in their system and that I should not have any roaming restrictions. They also say that when there are restrictions, they apply to Voice and Data, never just to Voice. Both eSims work correctly in another phone, even in Roaming, so the Network operators seem to be right.

I wiped my phone and brought it to an Apple Repair shop. After a week they gave it back saying that they had changed the IMEI. Well, that didn't help. I tried once more to contact Apple support. They want me to once more wipe my phone to see if the issue maintains. No use in explaining that I did that already.

Anyone else had such an issue?

iPhone 15 Pro Max, iOS 18

Posted on Feb 16, 2025 07:23 AM

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Answer 1

Feb 16, 2025 07:30 AM in response to mvop

mvop wrote:

I wiped my phone and brought it to an Apple Repair shop. After a week they gave it back saying that they had changed the IMEI.

In many countries, changing the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) of a device is illegal and can result in criminal charges. The IMEI is a unique identifier assigned to every mobile device, and tampering with it is often associated with fraud, stolen devices, or attempts to bypass carrier restrictions.

Legal Consequences

In the United States, altering an IMEI is a federal crime under the Fraudulent Access to Communications Act(18 U.S.C. § 1029).
In the United Kingdom, it is illegal under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006, with penalties including up to five years in prison.
Many other countries, such as India, Australia, and Canada, have strict laws prohibiting IMEI tampering.

Apple and IMEI Changes

Apple never changes a device's IMEI, even during repairs or replacements at an Apple Authorized Service Center. If a phone has a different IMEI than expected, it is likely a tampered or unauthorized device.

What to Do If You Encounter a Tampered IMEI Device

Do not use the device, as some networks actively block tampered IMEI numbers.
Check the IMEI by dialing *#06# or looking in Settings > General > About and comparing it to the original box.
Report to Law Enforcement – If you suspect someone is using or selling tampered devices, notify your local police or regulatory agency.
Avoid Buying Devices Without Verification – Always check the IMEI on databases like the GSMA IMEI Check to ensure it's not blacklisted or altered.

If you are unknowingly using a device with a changed IMEI, law enforcement could investigate you, as these devices are often linked to fraud or theft. It's best to report it before authorities take action.

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Answer 2

mvop Author

Level 1

5 points

Feb 18, 2025 05:04 AM in response to mvop

Another update. I just contacted Apple support. They said that it is a feature, not a bug.

In other words, when you activate Lockdown Mode, you are supposed to only receive and make calls from your primary number. If you have a second eSim, Lockdown Mode will not allow for making / receiving calls on the associated phone line.

That's all okay.

What is not okay is that Apple first line support does not know this. When I describe this issue, they tell me to wipe the phone, go to the repair center and try to wipe the phone again. If it is a feature, they should tell me.

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