IMEI Tampering: Threat to Digital Sovereignty

24 Sep 2026

Why in the News?

India’s active wireless mobile subscriber base reached 1,204.01 million in July 2026, increasing the importance of securing mobile devices and telecom networks.
The government has highlighted IMEI tampering as a threat to device identification, network security, consumer protection and law enforcement.

IMEI is a unique 15-digit number identifying a mobile device on a telecom network.
First 8 digits of IMEI form the Type Allocation Code (TAC).
GSMA oversees global allocation of TACs.
Dual-SIM phones generally have 2 IMEI numbers.
IMEI can be displayed by dialing *#06#.
IMEI can be verified through Sanchar Saathi or by sending KYM <15-digit IMEI> via SMS to 14422.
Manufacturers and importers register applicable IMEIs through Device Setu – Indian Counterfeited Device Restriction (ICDR) portal.

It is unlawful to intentionally:
- Remove, obliterate, change or alter a device’s unique identification number.
- Use, produce, traffic in, possess or control hardware/software knowing that it has been configured for such alteration.
Tampered IMEIs can make device identification and tracking more difficult.

Manufacturers
- Register applicable IMEIs with the Government before first sale, testing, research or other use.
- Ensure IMEIs are valid, unique and untampered.
Importers
- Register applicable IMEIs before importing telecom equipment into India.
- Ensure imported devices carry valid and authorised IMEIs.
Resellers/Retailers
- Ensure devices have valid and untampered IMEIs.
- Used devices should be checked against the Government database of tampered and blacklisted devices.
Brand Owners
- Ensure compliance with IMEI registration and cybersecurity requirements.
- Register brands through Device Setu-ICDR, linked to the relevant GSMA TAC.

Enables citizens to verify IMEI details of mobile handsets.
Verification can provide:
- Brand
- Model
- Manufacturer
Also provides a mechanism for blocking and unblocking lost or stolen mobile devices through CEIR.

Telecommunications Act, 2023 provides legal safeguards against tampering with telecommunication identifiers.
Section 42(3)(c): prohibits tampering with telecommunication identifiers.
Section 42(3)(e): prohibits obtaining SIMs or telecommunication identifiers through fraud, cheating or impersonation.
Punishment can include:
- Imprisonment up to 3 years
- Fine up to ₹50 lakh
- Or both
Such offences are cognizable and non-bailable under Section 42(7).
Section 42(6) extends liability to persons who abet or promote such offences.

IMEI is a 15-digit device identifier.
First 8 digits = TAC.
GSMA oversees global TAC allocation.
Dual-SIM phones generally have 2 IMEIs.
*#06# can display the IMEI.
IMEI verification: Sanchar Saathi or KYM <IMEI> to 14422.
Telecommunications Act, 2023 provides legal safeguards against IMEI tampering.
Section 42(3)(c) deals with tampering with telecommunication identifiers.
Maximum punishment mentioned: 3 years imprisonment and/or ₹50 lakh fine.
Section 42(7): offences are cognizable and non-bailable.

IMEI vs TAC: IMEI identifies the individual mobile device, while TAC is the first 8 digits and identifies the device type/model.
IMEI vs SIM: IMEI identifies the device, whereas SIM relates to the subscriber/mobile connection.
GSMA vs DoT: GSMA oversees global TAC allocation, while Indian IMEI registration and telecom regulation involve the Government/DoT.
Sanchar Saathi vs CEIR: Sanchar Saathi is the citizen-facing platform for telecom-related services, while CEIR is used for blocking/unblocking lost or stolen mobile devices.

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