[mothered]

The check would take place shortly after the return of the phone, probably before the refund is processed.

^ That's what I was questioning with this:

Are you referring to Apple checking the box at the time of the return

Are you absolutely certain they'll tear both pull tab seals and check what's Inside, when the box represents a legit return with no signs of tampering?

To not void the warranty, do they go through the meticulous process of resealing It (with phones legitimately returned) as per Its factory state, and then place It back Into stock?