New Delhi, August 31, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on Monday warned citizens against tampering with the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of mobile phones or using devices with unauthorised or modified telecommunication identifiers, saying such violations can attract imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to Rs 50 lakh, or both.
The advisory comes amid the rapid expansion of mobile connectivity and digital services, with the government highlighting the misuse of telecommunication identifiers as a serious concern for citizen safety and the security and integrity of telecom networks.
The DoT said tampering with IMEI numbers or using devices with tampered or unauthorised telecommunication identifiers is a punishable offence under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and rules framed under it.
Under Section 42(3)(c) of the Act, tampering with telecommunication identifiers is prohibited, while Section 42(3)(e) prohibits obtaining Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs) or telecommunication identifiers through fraud, cheating or impersonation.
The department said offences under the relevant provisions are cognizable and non-bailable under Section 42(7). It added that anyone who abets or promotes such offences can also face the same punishment under Section 42(6).
The DoT advised citizens against using, procuring or assembling modems, modules, SIM boxes and other equipment with configurable or tampered IMEI numbers. It also cautioned people against obtaining SIM cards using fake documents, fraud, cheating or impersonation.
Subscribers were further warned against transferring, selling, lending or handing over SIM cards registered in their names to others who could misuse them. The department said that procuring a SIM in one’s own name and subsequently allowing it to be used for cyber fraud or other unlawful activities could result in legal liability for the original subscriber.
The DoT also cautioned against using mobile applications, websites or other means to modify Calling Line Identity (CLI) or other telecommunication identifiers.
To help citizens verify their mobile devices and connections, the government has encouraged users to access services available through the Sanchar Saathi initiative. The platform enables users to verify the IMEI details of their mobile handsets, including the associated brand, model and manufacturer.
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