There is a fake J7 in this picture.

It's not possible to tell if a device is real if you look at it or take a photo.If you can't hold it in your hand and compare it to a real J7, you should check the IMEI number online.The real manufacturer of the device will be shown by the IMEI.You can protect yourself from buying a fake J7 by learning how to compare devices, running J7-only tests and shopping safely online.

Step 1: The phone has a color.

The J7 was available in black, white, gold, and rose gold.Only black, white, and gold were used for the model in 2015.The phone is not an original if it isn't one of those colors.

Step 2: Look at the logo of the company.

One of the two logos on the J7 is above the screen at the center, but the other is closer to the top than the bottom.When you rub them, they should not be stickers.

Step 3: You can compare the phone to a J7.

One way to make sure your phone is legit is to compare it to another model.Try to locate and press the buttons on the phone.Are they in the same place on their phones?When pressed, do they feel the same?Are the phones the same size?A fake J7 is thicker than a real one.The phones should be turned on to the max.Is the colors bolder on one than the other?

Step 4: You can enter codes into the dialer.

There are a few secret codes that you can use.The codes should only work on the phone.Several options should appear in the menu.If your phone is a J7, you will see this menu.The main version screen shows a bunch of random numbers for your phone.This is the main version of the phone.There are several gray square buttons on a white background.If nothing happens, the phone is not a J7.

Step 5: Find your phone's unique identification number.

If you want to check the authenticity of a device, you can use an IMEI-checking website.You can dial the number from the J7.The IMEI will appear on the screen when you enter the final #.The IMEI can be found on the packaging or under the battery.You have to slide the back cover to get to the battery.If you are buying a J7 online, you should ask the seller for the number.

Step 6: The IMEI is available at http://www.imei.info.

You do not need a user account or password to use this tool.

Step 7: To see the results, click "Check".

You will see a lot of information about your phone.The phone is not a legitimate product if you don't see the word "Samsung" next to the brand.

Step 8: The price must be looked at.

A brand new J7 goes for about $250.There will be some variation in that price with different retailers, but not much.It is probably not real if you find one that is only $150 and claims to be brand new.

Step 9: You can shop at one of the authorized dealers.

There is a list of authorized businesses on the website.To view the current list, visit http://www.samsung.com/us/peaceofmind/authorized_resellers.html.

Step 10: The seller should be able to provide the IMEI.

If you are buying a phone online from an individual, you should always check the IMEI.You should not trust a seller if they don't want to give you the IMEI.