1 day ago
DoT Warns IMEI Tampering Can Bring Jail, ₹50 Lakh Fine
The government has warned people not to change the identification number of a mobile phone.
This number is called an IMEI.
Changing it or using a phone with an unauthorised number can lead to serious punishment.
A person could face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to ₹50 lakh, or both.
People must also avoid getting SIM cards with fake documents or someone else’s identity.
Lending a SIM registered in your name could create legal problems if it is misused.
Apps and websites that change caller identification details should also be avoided.
The Sanchar Saathi service can help people check whether their phone details are genuine.
The Department of Telecommunications warned that tampering with IMEI numbers can lead to up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to ₹50 lakh, or both.
The restrictions apply under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, including its provisions against tampering with telecommunication identifiers.
Obtaining SIM cards or identifiers through fraud, cheating, or impersonation is also prohibited and can attract legal action.
The DoT cautioned against using or distributing devices, SIM boxes, or applications with tampered identifiers, and against lending SIM cards to others.
The Sanchar Saathi platform allows users to verify a handset’s IMEI, brand, model, and manufacturer details.
- Who
- The Department of Telecommunications warned citizens and mobile subscribers.
- What
- The DoT warned against tampering with IMEI numbers and using unauthorised or modified telecommunication identifiers.
- Where
- The advisory was issued in New Delhi and applies to telecom users in the country.
- When
- The advisory was issued on Monday.
- Why
- The government said misuse of telecommunication identifiers could threaten citizen safety and the security and integrity of telecom networks.
Key facts
- Maximum imprisonment
- Up to three years
- Maximum fine
- ₹50 lakh
- Relevant law
- Telecommunications Act, 2023
- Offence status
- Relevant offences are cognizable and non-bailable
- Covered conduct
- Tampering with IMEI or other telecommunication identifiers
- SIM-related warning
- Do not obtain SIMs through fraud, cheating, or impersonation, or hand registered SIMs to others
- Verification service
- Sanchar Saathi can show a handset’s IMEI, brand, model, and manufacturer
Sources
Related news
DoT Directs Telcos to Block SIMs Beyond Permitted Limits
India Caps Mobile Connections at Nine, Orders Real-Time Checks
Government Tightens Enforcement of India's Existing Nine-SIM Limit
DoT Orders Telcos to Block New SIMs Beyond Nine
India Plans Real-Time Biometric Checks for All SIM Cards
Mumbai Police Bust Fake CEO Cyber Fraud Racket, Two Arrested
Telangana Adopts Telecom Act, Bars Property Taxes on Networks
13 Arrested for Stealing MTNL Cables in Mumbai's Kandivali
Mobile Internet Suspended in Kishtwar for Security
India's SIM Binding Push for Messaging Apps
