ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) is a unique 20-digit code assigned to each SIM card by the International Telecommunication Union, used to uniquely identify SIM cards globally. It is usually printed on the card surface or can be queried through mobile settings. It contains information such as the issuing organization and country code, serving as a key basis for operators to activate and manage user accounts.
SIM Card Number (IMSI, International Mobile Subscriber Identity) is a 15-digit number stored within the SIM card, used to uniquely identify a user in the mobile network. It consists of the Mobile Country Code, Network Code, and Subscriber Identifier. The IMSI is verified by the operator’s system when the user accesses the network. Unlike the ICCID, it is not directly printed on the card but can be obtained through the device or operator queries. Both ensure the accuracy of user identity and communication services.
The ICCID and SIM card number are two distinct concepts, with differences primarily in the following aspects:
1. Definition and Purpose
· ICCID (Integrated Circuit Card Identifier) is the unique physical identifier of the SIM card, akin to the SIM card’s “ID number.” It consists of 20 digits and is used to uniquely identify this SIM card within the operator’s system.
For example, when reissuing a SIM card, activating a phone, or binding a device, the operator will use the ICCID to confirm the legitimacy of the card.
· The SIM card number typically refers to the phone number (MSISDN), which is the number used by the user to make calls and send messages, assigned by the operator and linked to a specific user. One phone number may correspond to multiple SIM cards (e.g., when changing cards), but each SIM card’s ICCID is unique.
2. Encoding Rules
· The ICCID has a fixed format, with the first 6 digits representing the operator code (e.g., China Mobile 898600, China Unicom 898601, China Telecom 898603), and the subsequent digits containing region codes, issuance time, user identification codes, etc.
· The encoding rules for the SIM card number (phone number) vary by operator, for example, China Mobile’s number ranges include 134-139, 158, etc.; China Unicom’s include 130-132, 155, etc.; and China Telecom’s include 133, 153, etc.
3. Functions and Roles
· The ICCID is primarily used for identity verification and card management between devices and the operator’s system, ensuring the uniqueness and security of the SIM card. For instance, when a phone is powered on, it reads the ICCID and interacts with the operator’s server to confirm the card’s validity.
· The SIM card number (phone number) is the core identifier for user communication, used for making and receiving calls, sending messages, and other daily communication functions.
4. How to Query ICCID and SIM Card Number?
ICCID Query Methods
Mobile Settings Query
iPhone: Go to “Settings” → “General” → “About Phone” and scroll to the bottom to view the ICCID.
Android: Query through “Settings” → “Mobile Network” → “SIM Card Management” or “About Phone” → “Status Information”.
Physical Card View
Remove the SIM card; the card surface or tray label will have the 20-digit ICCID (usually starting with 8986).
Operator Assistance
Call customer service (Mobile 10086, Unicom 10010, Telecom 10000) or log in to the operator’s app to query after identity verification.
SIM Card Number (IMSI) Query Methods
Mobile Settings Query
Android: Go to “Settings” → “About Phone” → “Status Information” → “SIM Card Status” to view the IMSI.
iPhone: Some models need to indirectly obtain it through “Settings” → “Phone” → “My Number”.
SMS Query
Send a specified command to the operator (e.g., for Mobile, send CXHM to 10086).
Physical Card or Packaging
IMSI may be printed on the back of the SIM card or in the original packaging manual.
Notes
The ICCID is the unique identifier for the SIM card, used for operator management; the IMSI is the network identity code, and the two serve different functions.
5G SIM card ICCIDs typically start with 8986, while 4G cards start with 8985.
If the phone is lost, you can contact the operator to lock or replace the card using the ICCID.
Conclusion:
The ICCID is the hardware identifier of the SIM card, used to distinguish different SIM cards; the SIM card number (phone number) is the logical identifier for user communication, used for actual communication. Together, they ensure that users can safely and accurately use mobile communication services.