IPhone is NOT blacklisted, but can't be activated?

I recently bought an iPhone and I'm having trouble activating it. The IMEI isn't blacklisted, but I can't get any service on the phone. I believe the phone was under contract and the previous owner neglected to pay their bill. Is there anything I can do? The phone is Verizon, if that makes a difference.

Your right this phone is not blacklisted, Yet. It will be blacklisted pretty soon though. You can call Verizon and explain the situation but more than likely they are going to have you get a new phone. I have seen this alot from scammers. Sorry this happened to you, best thing I can say is sweet talk a Verizon Rep.

If the seller didn't pay their bill, the phone will be blacklisted sooner or later and if you are trying to activate it with Verizon, they are still showing it being used on another account and since it has NOT been paid in full, the seller can't sell it, without scamming the buyer, and the seller knew this when they sold it.

So contact the seller to get your money back, and if you are lucky that will happen. Verizon will not have any pity on your, and IF they feel pity, they will tell you they can help if you pay the outstanding bill, which will be more than you paid for the phone I'm sure.