DoT warns mobile users against IMEI tampering, SIM misuse

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on Monday warned citizens against tampering with the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of mobile phones and using devices with unauthorised or modified telecommunication identifiers, saying such violations can attract imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to Rs 50 lakh, or both.

The advisory comes amid the rapid expansion of mobile connectivity and digital services in the country, with the government flagging the misuse of telecommunication identifiers as a serious concern for citizen safety and the security and integrity of telecom networks.

The DoT said tampering with IMEI numbers or using devices with tampered or unauthorised telecommunication identifiers is a punishable offence under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and the rules framed under it.

Under Section 42(3)(c) of the Telecommunications Act, tampering with telecommunication identifiers is prohibited. Section 42(3)(e) also prohibits obtaining Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs) or telecommunication identifiers through fraud, cheating or impersonation.

The department said offences under the relevant provisions are cognizable and non-bailable under Section 42(7) of the Act. It added that individuals who abet or promote such offences can also face the same punishment under Section 42(6).

The DoT has advised citizens against using, procuring or assembling modems, modules, SIM boxes and other equipment with configurable or tampered IMEI numbers. Citizens have also been cautioned against obtaining SIM cards using fake documents, fraud, cheating or impersonation.

The department further warned subscribers against transferring, selling, lending or handing over SIM cards obtained in their own name to others who could misuse them. It said that procuring a SIM in one's own name and subsequently allowing it to be used for cyber fraud or other unlawful activities could result in legal liability for the original subscriber.

The DoT also cautioned against using mobile applications, websites or other means to modify Calling Line Identity (CLI) or other telecommunication identifiers.

To help citizens verify their mobile devices and connections, the government has encouraged them to use services available under the Sanchar Saathi initiative. The platform allows users to verify the IMEI details of their mobile handsets, including the associated brand, model and manufacturer information.

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