The Department of Telecommunications under the Ministry of Communications has issued a warning to the public about the dangers of tampering with mobile phone identifiers and misusing telecommunication resources. The alert comes as concerns grow over how such activities threaten both individual safety and the security of India’s telecom networks.
What the law says and what you need to know
The Telecommunications Act, 2023 contains strict rules against tampering with telecommunication identifiers, particularly the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number found in mobile handsets. The law specifically prohibits three categories of offence: changing IMEI numbers on devices, obtaining SIM cards through fraud or fake documents, and using technology to alter calling line identities or other identifiers.
Anyone found guilty of these offences faces imprisonment of up to three years, a fine up to ₹50 lakh, or both. These are cognizable offences, meaning police can file cases without a complaint, and they are non-bailable. People who help others commit these crimes face the same punishment.
The Department cautions citizens against several specific practices: using or buying devices like modems or SIM boxes with altered IMEI numbers, getting SIM cards through fraudulent means, giving SIM cards obtained in their own name to others for misuse, and using apps or websites to change caller identification numbers.
An important point: if you take out a SIM card in your own name and later rent or loan it to someone who uses it for fraud or crime, you as the original subscriber can face legal consequences.
What this means for you
If you own a mobile phone, you should verify its authenticity and protect your SIM card as carefully as you would protect money or identity documents. The government has created the Sanchar Saathi Portal and mobile app specifically to help you check your device details and monitor your connections. Visiting the website at www.sancharsaathi.gov.in or downloading the app will let you confirm your handset’s IMEI number and other identifying information, giving you a way to spot if something is wrong.