[tvandyck7]

It probably won't be able to be activated. I think Verizon automatically places an alert on missing phones (to avoid fraud). As far as Metro PCS goes, I still don't think it'll work with a bad ESN, but ???. If the phone is found, it is supposed to be returned to the insurance company. If it is not sent in and they find out, they'll charge full retail for it. If "your friend" wants to keep it, I suggest just using it for spare parts and don't risk trying to activate it. You have to realize that Verizon deals with this everyday. They know what they're doing. It won't hurt their feelings one bit to charge $500 for a device that is not returned properly.