DoT Warns Citizens Against IMEI Tampering, Misuse of Telecom Identifiers
To help users verify and secure their mobile devices, the DoT has advised the use of the Sanchar Saathi portal and mobile app.
DoT urges public to use Sanchar Saathi portal and mobile app to verify and secure mobile devices
New Delhi, November 25: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a strong advisory cautioning citizens about the serious legal consequences of tampering with IMEI numbers and misusing telecom identifiers, amid rising incidents of device-related fraud across the country. The government said the rapid expansion of mobile connectivity has also led to increasing attempts to alter or clone unique device identifiers, posing risks to citizens and telecom networks.
The advisory reiterates that the Telecommunications Act, 2023 imposes stringent penalties for altering telecommunication identifiers such as the IMEI number of mobile phones. Section 42(3)(c) prohibits any form of tampering, while Section 42(3)(e) bars obtaining SIM cards or identifiers through fraud, cheating or impersonation. Possession of any radio equipment—including handsets, modems, modules or SIM boxes—knowing that it uses unauthorised or tampered identifiers is also an offence under Section 42(3)(f).
Violations can attract imprisonment of up to three years, fines up to ₹50 lakh, or both. These offences are cognizable and non-bailable, and those who promote or abet such activities face identical punishment under Section 42(6). The Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules, 2024 further prohibit the alteration of IMEI numbers or the use or possession of equipment in which IMEI can be configured or changed.
The DoT has urged citizens to avoid using devices with tampered IMEIs, assembled or illegally modified equipment such as SIM boxes, and mobile applications or websites that manipulate calling line identity or other telecom identifiers. Procuring SIM cards through forged documents or handing over SIM cards to others—especially when used for cyber fraud—can also result in criminal liability for the original subscriber.
The government emphasised that IMEI tampering and fraudulent SIM procurement are key enablers of cybercrime. Citizens whose SIM cards are misused for online fraud may be held liable if the cards were obtained or shared improperly.
To help users verify and secure their mobile devices, the DoT has advised the use of the Sanchar Saathi portal and mobile app. Through the CEIR module, users can check IMEI details, including brand, model and manufacturer information. Sanchar Saathi also provides tools for blocking lost or stolen phones and managing mobile connections.
Citizens can access Sanchar Saathi at www.sancharsaathi.gov.in or download the mobile app from official app stores. The DoT said adherence to the Act and its rules is essential to protect citizens from telecom fraud and ensure a secure digital ecosystem.
