New Delhi, September 23, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Intentionally removing, destroying, changing or altering a mobile device’s unique Mobile Device Equipment Identification number, commonly known as the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI), is an offence under Indian law, according to an official factsheet issued on Wednesday.
The law also prohibits the use, manufacture, sale, distribution, possession or control of hardware or software when a person knows that it has been configured to remove or alter an IMEI.
Violations related to IMEI tampering can attract imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to Rs 50 lakh, or both. Such offences are cognisable and non-bailable under Section 42(7) of the Act.
The government has advised citizens to use the Sanchar Saathi platform to verify and secure their mobile devices. The platform allows users to check a handset’s IMEI details, including its brand, model and manufacturer, helping them verify the authenticity of a device.
The factsheet also lists obtaining SIM cards through fraudulent documents, cheating or impersonation among punishable offences. Transferring, selling or handing over SIM cards obtained in one’s name to another person who may misuse them is also prohibited.
Using mobile applications, websites or other means to modify the Calling Line Identity (CLI) or other telecommunication identifiers is likewise an offence.
Citizens have been advised to purchase mobile devices only from authorised sellers and verify their IMEI details. Users should also protect handsets with strong passwords, PINs or biometric authentication and get devices repaired only at authorised service centres to minimise the risk of tampering or other malicious activity.
In case of loss or theft, users should immediately report the matter to the local police and retain a copy of the complaint. A duplicate SIM card for the lost number can then be obtained from the telecom operator.
Under TRAI regulations, SMS services remain restricted for the first 24 hours after activation of a reissued SIM. Since Sanchar Saathi requires mobile OTP verification, users must wait 24 hours before submitting a device-blocking request.
The handset can then be blocked through the Sanchar Saathi CEIR portal or mobile app by uploading the police report and valid identity proof. A unique Request ID is generated for tracking the request.
If the device is recovered, users should first inform the local police and then use the Request ID on the portal to unblock the handset.
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