DoT Action on IMEI: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has made it clear that tampering with the 15-digit IMEI number of a mobile phone or any telecom identifier will now be considered a very serious crime.
(The government takes strict action regarding the IMEI number)
DoT Action on IMEI: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has clarified that tampering with a mobile phone's 15-digit IMEI number, or any other telecom identifier, will now be considered a very serious offense. This offense falls under the non-bailable category and is punishable by a maximum of three years in prison, a fine of up to ₹50 lakh, or both. The government has adopted this strict stance to protect telecom networks and curb counterfeit devices.
From manufacturers to sellers, DoT warns everyone.
The DoT has issued a detailed advisory to mobile phone manufacturers, brand owners, importers, and all retailers. It states that tampering with any telecom identifier is punishable by strict penalties under the Telecommunications Act 2023. The department has directed all companies to fully comply with the legal framework.
The government also clarified that changing the IMEI makes it extremely difficult for law enforcement agencies to trace criminals. Therefore, IMEI registration and all related processes are being strictly regulated.
What do the Telecom Act 2023 and Cyber Security Rules say?
Under the new system, not only changing the IMEI, but also knowingly possessing any radio device, such as a mobile phone, modem, or SIM box, with a false or altered telecom identifier, will be considered a crime in itself. These offenses are cognizable and non-bailable. Furthermore, those who aid, suggest, or encourage such acts will face similar punishment.
According to the Telecom Cyber Security Rules 2024, no person may erase, alter, or modify the unique identification number of a telecom device. It is also a crime to use or possess any hardware or software that has the capability to alter the IMEI.
IMEI registration is now mandatory
According to the new guidelines, every mobile phone, module, modem, and SIM box manufactured in India must register its IMEI number on the government's Device Setu (ICDR) portal before its first sale, testing, or research. Similarly, registration of any device with an IMEI number from abroad has been made mandatory before importing it into India.
The DoT states that compliance with these regulations is crucial for the country's cybersecurity, tax compliance, and preventing the proliferation of counterfeit devices. Violators will be prosecuted without leniency.
