IMEI Tampering Can Land You in Jail: A Simple Guide to India's Telecom Device Rules
Last updated: 25 Sep 2026 NEW
Quick Summary
India's telecom rules treat IMEI tampering as a serious crime. Under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, changing a phone's unique identity can mean up to 3 years in jail, a fine of up to ₹50 lakh, or both. The Department of Telecommunications also explains what manufacturers, sellers and ordinary phone users must do to keep devices genuine and safe.
Why It Matters
What Happened
India runs one of the world's largest mobile networks. In July 2026, the country had 1,204.01 million active wireless mobile subscribers. Crores of people use phones for payments, government services and daily work.
Because so much depends on these devices, the government wants every phone on the network to be genuine. The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has now explained its rules on IMEI numbers — the unique identity of your phone.
What Changes
Tampering with an IMEI is now unlawful under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. It is a crime if you intentionally remove, erase, change or alter a device's unique Mobile Device Equipment Identification number.
It is also a crime to make, use, sell, traffic in, control, keep or possess hardware or software that you know can change an IMEI.
Breaking these rules can send you to jail for up to 3 years. You can also be fined up to ₹50 lakh, or face both. These offences are cognizable and non-bailable under Section 42(7).
Anyone who helps or encourages such a crime faces the same punishment under Section 42(6). Section 42(3)(e) also bans getting SIM cards through fraud, cheating or impersonation.
What You Need to Do
Know your IMEI. It is a unique 15-digit number that identifies your phone on a telecom network. Dial *#06# on your handset to see it.
Check the TAC. The first eight digits of an IMEI form the Type Allocation Code (TAC). It tells you the device model. The Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) gives out TACs to manufacturers.
Dual-SIM phones usually have two IMEI numbers, one for each SIM slot.
Verify your device. Visit the Sanchar Saathi portal or mobile app. You can also send KYM <15-digit IMEI number> by SMS to 14422 to check your device details.
If you make devices, register first. Manufacturers must register IMEIs of telecom devices made in India with the government. Do this before the first sale, testing, research or other use. Registration happens on the Device Setu–Indian Counterfeited Device Restriction (ICDR) portal. Devices must carry valid, unique and untampered IMEIs.
If you import devices, register the IMEIs with the Central Government before the devices enter India. Use the Device Setu–ICDR portal. Imported devices must carry valid and authorised IMEIs.
If you sell devices, check every IMEI. Resellers and retailers must offer only devices with valid and untampered IMEIs. If you deal in used phones, check the IMEI against the government's central database of tampered and blacklisted devices before you close the deal. You pay a small fee for each IMEI check. Selling devices with tampered or configurable IMEIs can bring strict legal action.
If you own a brand, register it. Brand owners must register their brands on the Device Setu–ICDR portal and link them to the right GSMA Type Allocation Code. Devices sold under the brand must carry authentic and authorised IMEIs and follow cybersecurity rules.
What Citizens Should Avoid
Do not use, buy or put together devices like modems, modules or SIM boxes with tampered or configurable IMEIs.
Do not get a SIM card using fake documents, fraud, cheating or impersonation.
Do not transfer, sell or hand over a SIM card issued in your name to someone else. They may misuse it.
Do not use apps, websites or any other method to change your Calling Line Identity (CLI) or other telecom identifiers.
What Citizens Should Do
Buy mobile devices only from authorised sellers. Always verify the IMEI details.
Protect your phone with a strong password, PIN or biometric lock.
Get your phone repaired only at authorised service centres. This lowers the risk of IMEI tampering.
If your phone is lost or stolen, act step by step. First, file a report with your local police and keep a copy of the complaint.
Next, get a duplicate SIM card for the lost number from your telecom operator. Under TRAI rules, SMS services stay blocked for the first 24 hours after a re-issued SIM is activated. Sanchar Saathi needs a mobile OTP, so wait 24 hours before you apply.
Then register the blocking request on the Sanchar Saathi (CEIR) portal or mobile app. Upload the police report and a valid ID proof. You will get a unique Request ID.
If you later get your device back, tell the local police first. After that, use your Request ID on the portal to unblock the handset safely.
Deadline
The official source does not mention a deadline. These rules are already in force, so follow them right away.
FAQs
What is an IMEI number?
How do I find my phone's IMEI?
How can I check if my IMEI is genuine?
Does a dual-SIM phone have two IMEI numbers?
What is the punishment for IMEI tampering?
My phone was stolen. What should I do first?
Why must I wait 24 hours after getting a duplicate SIM?
What if I get my lost phone back?
Disclaimer
Samjho is an independent informational resource and is not a government website. Content is for general understanding only and is not financial, legal, tax or professional advice. Rules, rates and eligibility can change; always verify current details with official sources before acting.