Govt Warns Against SIM Fraud, IMEI Tampering
Violations can attract up to three years’ imprisonment and ₹50 lakh fine; citizens urged to use Sanchar Saathi
- DoT found 25 SIMs fraudulently activated using citizens’ identity documents in Chhattisgarh.
- Suspicious numbers were re-verified, with failed cases subsequently deactivated.
- Fraudulent SIM issuance and IMEI tampering are punishable under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
- Citizens can verify mobile connections and handset details through Sanchar Saathi.
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 21st Sept: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has cautioned citizens against fraudulent issuance of SIM cards, misuse of telecom identifiers and tampering with International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers, warning that violations can attract imprisonment of up to three years and fines of up to ₹50 lakh.
The advisory follows recent cybercrime investigations in which a Point of Sale (PoS) agent in Chhattisgarh was found to have illegally activated 25 mobile connections using citizens’ identity documents without their knowledge or consent.
Following the findings, the DoT and telecom service providers blacklisted the concerned PoS agent, preventing it from issuing further mobile connections. The 25 connections were examined through the DoT’s Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP), with suspicious numbers subjected to re-verification. Connections that failed the verification process were subsequently deactivated.
Citizens cautioned against sharing SIMs
The DoT has advised citizens not to share, transfer, sell, rent or hand over SIM cards issued in their names to others. It warned that the original subscriber could face legal liability if a connection registered in their name is misused for cybercrime or other unlawful activities.
The department also cautioned against procuring SIM cards through fake documents, fraud, cheating or impersonation.
Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, the misuse of telecom identifiers and tampering with IMEI numbers are punishable offences. The department said compliance with the Act and associated rules is essential to prevent telecom-related fraud and protect the security of communication networks.
Warning over tampered IMEI numbers
The DoT has asked citizens to avoid using, procuring or assembling devices such as modems, modules and SIM boxes containing configurable or tampered IMEI numbers.
Citizens have also been advised against using applications, websites or other means to modify Calling Line Identity (CLI) or other telecommunications identifiers.
The department said misuse of SIM cards and telecom identifiers can facilitate cyber fraud and pose risks to the security and integrity of telecom networks.
Sanchar Saathi for verification
The government has urged citizens to regularly check mobile connections issued in their names through the Sanchar Saathi Portal and Mobile App.
The platform allows users to identify mobile numbers registered in their name and take action against connections that are unnecessary or not genuinely theirs.
Citizens can also use the Check Genuineness of Your Mobile Handset facility on Sanchar Saathi to verify IMEI details. The service provides information including the device’s brand, model and manufacturer.
The DoT has urged citizens to remain vigilant and use the available Sanchar Saathi services to secure their mobile connections and handsets.
