First of all I am new here so..
Hello everyone,
I am living in the Philippines and bought a Blackberry Bold 9700 second hand unit. Its in a really good condition and it was quite cheap (maybe now I know why)....
I bought it out of a Pawnshop and unfortunately they have a NO RETURN policy on used items.
Since I am completely new to BB I had no idea that the device has to be unlocked by the former owner so the new owner could use the email push services offered by RIM. (at least thats what I found so far in the www)
I really have no Idea now what to do. Pleas dont tell me that I have a useless expansive paperweight on my desk now
BB is fine but unless you can avail of the email service its just another normal phone or ...?! I am relly greatful for any helpful comments, suggestions and tips.
Many tnx in andvance and have a great day.
Best regards
Flo

You can unlock the device to use on another network. What i think you ar asking about is the ability to use email, etc. If the previous owner did not cancel their BIS account, then the PIN has not been released. You need to have that happen to use RIM services.

Try calling your cell carrier and explain the situation and see if they can help.

Another issue however, if the device was reported as lost or stolen, then it might be locked out and if that is the case, then you are out of luck on that.

Before you buy another used BB, read this, as it applies to buying any used one, via eBay or any other source: Buying a BlackBerry off eBay - BlackBerryFAQ

Also, if the previous owner owed the carrier money when he pawned the BlackBerry the carrier may have locked the PIN for the unpaid balance. Sounds likely that if the owner needed to pawn the BlackBerry his account could be in arrears. The balance has to be paid before the PIN can be unlocked, and usually the original owner who owes the money has to pay the bill. They don't accept payment from anyone but that person. In that case you do indeed have a paperweight.