DoT Issues Strict Warning Against Fake SIM Cards and IMEI Tampering; Fines Up to 50 Lakh and Jail Terms Possible
The Department of Telecommunications has warned against the issuance of fake SIM cards and tampering with IMEI numbers, with penalties including up to three years in prison and heavy fines.
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has cautioned citizens against the fraudulent issuance of SIM cards, the misuse of telecommunications identity information, and the tampering of International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of mobile devices. The department clarified that those found guilty in such cases could face up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of up to 50 lakh rupees under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
Recently, the Madhya Pradesh Licensed Service Area (LSA) of the Department of Telecommunications took strict action against such activities. During a cybercrime investigation in Chhattisgarh, a case emerged where a Point of Sale (PoS) agent illegally activated 25 mobile connections using people's documents without their consent or knowledge. Taking action on this, the concerned PoS agent was immediately blacklisted and barred from issuing SIM cards in the future. These 25 connections were scrutinized on the digital intelligence platform, and suspected numbers that failed re-verification were deactivated.
The Department of Telecommunications has advised citizens not to share or transfer SIM cards issued in their name to any other person, as the original customer will bear the legal liability in the event of SIM misuse. Additionally, the department has warned against the following actions:
Using devices such as SIM boxes, modems, or modules where the IMEI number can be changed. Obtaining SIM cards through forged documents or fraud. Selling or handing over SIM cards registered in one's own name to others. Using any app or website to change the calling line identity. Lending or renting out SIM cards for cyber fraud.
To prevent the misuse of telecommunications resources, the government has provided the 'Sanchar Saathi' portal and mobile app. Through this platform, citizens can check all mobile numbers issued in their name and block unnecessary numbers. Additionally, the authenticity of mobile handsets and IMEI details, such as brand, model, and manufacturer, can be verified via Sanchar Saathi.
