New Delhi: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has cautioned citizens against tampering with mobile handset IMEI numbers and misusing telecommunication identifiers, warning that violations can lead to up to three years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to ₹50 lakh.
The department said misuse of unique telecom identifiers can compromise citizen safety and threaten the security and integrity of India’s telecommunications networks.
What the law says about IMEI tampering
Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, tampering with telecommunication identifiers, including IMEI numbers, is a punishable offence.
Section 42(3)(c) prohibits tampering with telecommunication identifiers, while Section 42(3)(e) prohibits obtaining SIM cards or telecom identifiers through fraud, cheating or impersonation.
Violations can attract imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to ₹50 lakh, or both. Such offences are cognisable and non-bailable under Section 42(7). Those who assist, promote or encourage such offences can also face the same punishment.
DoT warns against fake SIMs and modified identifiers
The DoT has advised citizens not to use or procure devices such as modems, modules and SIM boxes with configurable or tampered IMEIs.
Citizens have also been cautioned against obtaining SIM cards using fake documents, fraud or impersonation, as well as handing over SIM cards registered in their own names to others for possible misuse.
Using applications or websites to modify Calling Line Identity (CLI) or other telecom identifiers is also prohibited.
The department warned that people who obtain SIM cards in their own names and subsequently rent, lend or otherwise provide them to others for cyber fraud or other unlawful activities could also face legal liability.
Sanchar Saathi can help verify mobile handsets
The government has urged citizens to use the Sanchar Saathi platform to verify and secure their mobile connections and handsets.
Through the service, users can check the IMEI details of their mobile phones, including the brand, model and manufacturer information associated with the device.
Citizens can access the Sanchar Saathi Portal or use the Sanchar Saathi mobile app for various citizen-centric telecom security services.
The DoT said awareness and compliance with the Telecommunications Act are essential to prevent telecom-related fraud and maintain a safe, secure and trusted telecommunications ecosystem.
