The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a stern advisory warning that altering or using devices with tampered IMEI numbers is a criminal offence under the Telecommunications Act, 2023 and related rules. Citizens are urged to use the Sanchar Saathi portal and mobile app to verify device IMEI details and secure their mobile connections.
What the DoT advisory says
The DoT reminded users that the Telecommunications Act, 2023 contains strict provisions against tampering of telecommunication identifiers such as the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity). Specific clauses including Section 42(3)(c), 42(3)(e) and 42(3)(f) prohibit altering identifiers, procuring SIMs by fraud, and possessing devices known to have unauthorized identifiers.
Violations attract severe penalties: imprisonment for up to three years, fines up to ₹50 lakh, or both. Offences are cognizable and non-bailable under Section 42(7), and Section 42(6) extends identical punishment to those who abet or promote such crimes.
Rules and enforcement
The Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules, 2024 further prohibit production, possession or use of equipment in which IMEI can be configured or altered. DoT emphasised that tampering undermines network integrity, facilitates fraud and poses national security risks because tampered devices can be used for impersonation, bypassing lawful interception and other criminal activity.
Regulatory enforcement combines network forensics, device verification and police action where criminality is established.
Common practices to avoid
DoT lists specific behaviours that citizens must avoid: using devices with tampered IMEIs, procuring or assembling modems/modules/SIM boxes with configurable IMEIs, obtaining SIM cards through fake documents or impersonation, and lending SIMs procured in one’s name to others who may misuse them.
The advisory warns that the original SIM holder may be treated as an offender if the SIM is later misused for cyber-fraud, making vigilance and secure handling of SIMs essential.
How to check and secure your device
To empower users, the government maintains the Sanchar Saathi portal and mobile app where citizens can verify IMEI details. The portal (CEIR/Sanchar Saathi) displays brand name, model and manufacturer — helping buyers and users detect counterfeit or tampered devices.
Use these links to verify and register devices: Sanchar Saathi CEIR IMEI check and Sanchar Saathi portal. The DoT advises downloading the official Sanchar Saathi mobile app from authorised app stores rather than relying on third-party tools.
Why tampered IMEIs are dangerous
Tampered IMEIs help criminals mask device identity, facilitate SIM fraud, evade tracking and enable large-scale harassment or financial scams. Networks rely on unique device identifiers to detect suspicious devices and enforce security measures; altering identifiers undermines those safeguards.
DoT’s action framework aims to deter such misuse through penalties, public awareness and technical checks at point of sale and import.
Reporting and redressal
Citizens who suspect they possess tampered devices or who encounter suspicious telecom behaviour are advised to report incidents through Sanchar Saathi and local cybercrime units. For guidance and complaints, use the Sanchar Saathi portal or contact telecom service provider grievance channels. Official government resources include the DoT website and Sanchar Saathi: Department of Telecommunications | Sanchar Saathi.
Practical tips to stay secure
- Always buy devices from authorised retailers and check IMEI before purchase (dial *#06# to view IMEI).
- Verify IMEI on the Sanchar Saathi portal/app before activating a device.
- Do not share scanned identity documents for SIM procurement with unverified agents.
- Do not hand over SIMs procured in your name to unknown persons; keep SIM and KYC documents secure.
- Report suspicious device behaviour or unauthorized SIM activity to your service provider and Sanchar Saathi immediately.
Takeaway
DoT’s advisory is a clear reminder that IMEI tampering is not a technical curiosity it is a criminal act with serious penalties and wide-ranging consequences. Citizens can protect themselves and the wider telecom ecosystem by verifying device IMEIs, securing SIMs and using official Sanchar Saathi tools for checks and reporting.
Adhering to the law and using available verification tools helps reduce fraud, protect privacy and maintain trust in India’s rapidly growing digital infrastructure.
