Archive · 31 Aug 2026
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.
- When
- The advisory was issued on Monday.
- Where
- The advisory was issued in New Delhi and applies to telecom users in the country.
- Why
- The government said misuse of telecommunication identifiers could threaten citizen safety and the security and integrity of telecom networks.
- 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