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Stricter rules to track down fake IMEI numbers
Posted on: 27/Jun/2017 3:46:35 PM
As per initiatives by the Department of Telecom, it is likely that a new rule will be imposed under which tempering IMEI number will turn into a punishable office with 3 years of imprisonment. IMEI is a unique 15-digit serial number for mobile devices.
Issues about fake IMEI numbers and tracking of lost mobile phones will thus become easier. Due to fake or duplicate IMEI numbers, tracking mobile devices have got way too tough. A government official said that the DoT is working out a new rule that will make tampering IMEI numbers a punishable office, according to the Indian Telegraph Act.
With the help of International Mobile Equipment Identity Number, security agencies can find it easier to track mobile devices and calls made using those phones.
The telecom operators are disallowed to offer any sort of service to mobile phones that have fake IMEI numbers. However, the challenge here is to identify such mobile phones have fake IMEI numbers.
According to a recent tracking made by the Telecom Enforcement Resource and Monitoring, about 18,000 handsets with IMEI numbers are discovered to be in use.
The new rule is structured as a combination of section 7 and section 27 of the Indian Telegraph Act.
Under the Section 7, DoT gets the power for framing rules for the conduct of telegram and telegraph services. Similarly, under section 25, it offers the power to deal with damaged telegraph line, machines and allied equipment.
The officer further stated that the rules shall be informed on gazette once it gets finalized.
