Outlook Business Desk
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has directed all phone makers, importers and sellers to register International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of devices with the government before sale or testing, ensuring regulatory compliance.
The advisory follows a surge in online fraud and spoofing involving tampered IMEI numbers. Authorities stress thorough verification to curb mobile device misuse nationwide.
The government keeps a central record of blacklisted or tampered IMEI numbers. Anyone buying or selling used phones must verify the device and pay a fee before the transaction.
The Department of Telecommunications referenced the Telecom Act, 2023, and Telecom Cybersecurity Amendment Rules, 2024, mandating registration of IMEI numbers for all domestic and imported mobile devices.
Rules allow the government to instruct manufacturers to manage tampered IMEIs and prevent the reuse of IMEIs already assigned in new or imported mobile devices.
End-users are banned from removing or altering IMEI numbers. DoT said devices with programmable IMEIs are considered tampered and attract legal action under the Telecom Cybersecurity Rules, 2024.
DoT noted that violating IMEI rules can lead to imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of ₹50 lakh, or both, reinforcing the government’s crackdown on mobile device tampering.