New Delhi, August 2026 : The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on Monday cautioned citizens against tampering with the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of mobile phones or using devices carrying unauthorised or modified telecommunication identifiers, warning that such violations could result in imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to Rs 50 lakh, or both.
The advisory comes amid the growing use of mobile connectivity and digital services across the country. The department said misuse of telecommunication identifiers poses serious risks to citizen safety and can undermine the security and integrity of telecom networks.
According to the DoT, tampering with IMEI numbers or using devices containing tampered or unauthorised telecommunication identifiers constitutes a punishable offence under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and the rules framed under it.
Section 42(3)(c) of the Act prohibits tampering with telecommunication identifiers, while Section 42(3)(e) makes it an offence to obtain Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs) or telecommunication identifiers through fraudulent means, cheating or impersonation.
The department said offences covered under the relevant provisions are cognizable and non-bailable under Section 42(7) of the Act. It further stated that anyone who abets, assists or promotes such offences may also face the same punishment under Section 42(6).
The DoT has specifically advised citizens not to use, procure or assemble modems, modules, SIM boxes or other telecommunications equipment with configurable or tampered IMEI numbers.
Citizens have also been warned against obtaining SIM cards using fake documents or through fraud, cheating or impersonation. The department stressed that subscribers must exercise caution while acquiring and using SIM connections registered in their names.
The DoT further cautioned people against transferring, selling, lending or handing over SIM cards obtained in their own name to another person who could potentially misuse them.
According to the department, individuals who procure a SIM card in their own name and subsequently allow it to be used for cyber fraud or other unlawful activities could face legal consequences. The warning highlights the importance of ensuring that SIM cards registered against a person's identity remain under their control and are not misused by others.
The department also advised citizens against using mobile applications, websites or other tools that facilitate the modification of Calling Line Identity (CLI) or other telecommunication identifiers.
Such practices can interfere with the identification and traceability of communications and may be misused for fraudulent or unlawful activities, the advisory indicated.
As part of its efforts to help citizens verify their mobile devices and telecom connections, the government has encouraged users to make use of services available through the Sanchar Saathi initiative.
The platform enables users to verify the IMEI details of their mobile handsets and check associated information, including the brand, model and manufacturer.
The DoT urged citizens to remain vigilant while purchasing mobile devices, obtaining SIM cards or using telecom-related applications and services. It also advised users to rely on authorised channels and avoid devices or services that involve altered identifiers or questionable documentation.
The department's latest warning underscores the government's focus on protecting the integrity of India's telecommunications infrastructure while ensuring that mobile and digital services are not exploited for cyber fraud or other illegal activities.
With mobile phones increasingly being used for banking, digital payments, identity verification and access to essential online services, the DoT stressed the importance of maintaining the authenticity and traceability of telecommunication identifiers.
Team Maverick
