Govt's new guidelines to check smartphone theft - all you need to know

The Centre has issued new guidelines to curb phone-related crimes. The new rules will also help in tracking the phones easily in case of theft. According to the new guidelines, the government should possess all International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers, that is every phone should be registered on the government's website.

Under the prevention of tampering with the Mobile Device Equipment Identification Number (Amendment) Rules, 2022 following rules are included-

Department of Telecommunication (DoT) has made it mandatory for every mobile phone manufacturer to register the IMEI of every mobile phone in India with the Indian Counterfeited Device Restriction portal -- icdr.ceir.gov.in before the sale of a mobile. This rule shall come into force from January 1, 2023  

It is mandatory to register all IMEI of imported mobiles for sale, research, testing, and other purposes with the Indian Counterfeited Device Restriction portal* (https://icdr.ceir.gov.in)

What is IMEI?

The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique number to identify GSM, WCDMA, and iDEN mobile phones, as well as some satellite phones. Most phones have one IMEI number, but in the case of dual SIM phones, there are two.

What’s the use of IMEI number?

The IMEI number helps track the phone in case of theft. With the help of IMEI number, one can check whether the phone they are interested in has been reported lost, is deny-listed, was subject to an insurance claim, and more. The number also reveals loads of other details about a phone.

How to know the IMEI number?

One method is to go to the phone app and Dial *#06# on your keypad.

For sealed phones (non-removable cover or battery)

Step 1. Look at the back of your phone.

Step 2. The Model Number, Serial Number, and IMEI are printed on the back of your device.