The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has issued a caution to manufacturers, importers, brand owners, and resellers regarding compliance with IMEI registration rules under the Telecommunications Act, 2023 and Telecom Cyber Security Rules, 2024. The regulations aim to secure India’s telecom networks, prevent counterfeit devices, and enforce adherence to legal frameworks.
Key Legal Provisions
- IMEI tampering prohibited: Section 42(3)(c) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023, forbids altering telecommunication identifiers, including IMEIs.
- Possession of tampered devices is an offense: Section 42(3)(f) criminalizes knowing possession of devices such as mobile handsets, SIM boxes, modems, or modules with unauthorized or tampered IMEIs.
- Penalties: Offenses are cognizable and non-bailable under Section 42(7), carrying up to 3 years imprisonment, fines up to Rs. 50 lakh, or both. Section 42(6) applies the same penalties to those who abet or promote such violations.
Mandatory Regulatory Requirements
IMEI Registration
- Manufacturers must register IMEIs of all devices produced in India prior to sale, testing, or R&D.
- Importers must register IMEIs of all devices brought into India before importation.
- Registration is completed via Device Setu – Indian Counterfeited Device Restriction (ICDR) portal
Avoid Duplicate IMEIs
- As per the Telecom Cyber Security Amendment Rules, 2025, manufacturers cannot assign IMEIs already in use in India to new devices.
National IMEI Database
- Entities trading used devices must verify IMEIs against the tampered or blacklisted IMEI database maintained by the government. Verification incurs a fee per IMEI.
Prohibition on Tampering and Programmable IMEIs
- Rule 8(3) prohibits removing, altering, or controlling telecommunication identifiers intentionally.
- Devices capable of programmable IMEIs are considered tampered and fall under the same legal penalties.
Blocking of Tampered Devices
- Under Rule 5, the Central Government may direct telecom operators to block devices with tampered IMEIs from networks or services.
Compliance Importance
The DoT highlights that following these regulations is critical for:
- Maintaining telecom cyber security
- Preventing counterfeit devices
- Supporting law enforcement
- Ensuring tax collection and regulatory compliance
Non-compliance may result in serious legal consequences for manufacturers, importers, sellers, and users of devices with tampered or configurable IMEIs.
IMEI Registration Process
All devices must be registered via the Device Setu – ICDR portal: https://icdr.ceir.gov.in
Registration steps include:
- Company registration
- Brand registration linked to GSMA TAC
- Device model registration
- IMEI number registration
- Certificate generation for customs clearance
Outlook
Compliance with IMEI registration and anti-tampering rules is expected to strengthen India’s telecom network integrity and reduce counterfeit device circulation. Manufacturers, importers, and sellers are advised to follow all legal provisions closely to avoid penalties.