Five myths about refurbished phones: Are they stolen?

The refurbished phone market has been gaining relevance as an alternative that allows you to save money and reduce environmental impact.

However, there are still several misconceptions that generate distrust among consumers. Refurbi, a company specializing in this type of device, clarifies five myths about them.

(Read also: The definitive guide to buying a security camera ).

There is a common misconception that refurbished phones are stolen equipment. However, these devices go through processes that ensure their legal origin.

In the case of Refurbi, the devices come from return programs, in which users hand over their used cell phones as part of the payment to acquire a new one. Before accepting a device, a diagnosis is carried out with an application that evaluates its functions, in addition to a physical inspection.

Additionally, IMEI codes 1 and 2 are verified to ensure that they do not appear in databases of devices reported stolen or with negative records . If a phone does not pass this validation, it is not eligible to be refurbished.

Many people believe that refurbished phones are used devices that are resold without modifications.

However, these devices undergo processes that include technical inspection, repair or replacement of components if necessary, thorough cleaning , and are delivered with a new charger and in recycled and recyclable packaging.

There is a perception that refurbished phones have a very short lifespan.

However, these devices, after undergoing quality testing and repair, can continue to function properly for an average of three years.

Another misconception is that these devices do not have a warranty. In fact, when they are purchased from specialized companies, they include a warranty for the buyer.

Refurbi, for example, offers a 14-month warranty that covers manufacturing defects or technical problems that may arise.

These phones are often thought to have persistent faults. However, refurbished devices undergo an inspection that includes at least 25 checkpoints.

These include tests of the screen, battery, speakers, cameras, sensors, buttons and microphones, in order to ensure they function correctly before being marketed.

*This content was rewritten with the assistance of artificial intelligence, based on information from Refurbi, and reviewed by a journalist and an editor.