India DoT warns IMEI tampering can bring 3 years in jail
TL;DR: India’s Department of Telecommunications said on September 1, 2026 that tampering with IMEI numbers, using devices with unauthorized identifiers, or obtaining SIMs through fraud is punishable under the Telecommunications Act, 2023. The ministry said violations can lead to up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to ₹50 lakh, or both, and that the offences are cognizable and non-bailable.
India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) said on September 1, 2026 that citizens must not tamper with or misuse telecommunication identifiers, including the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number used on mobile devices. The department said misuse of identifiers can affect citizen safety and the security and integrity of telecom networks.
The Ministry of Communications said Section 42(3)(c) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023 prohibits tampering with telecommunication identifiers, and Section 42(3)(e) prohibits obtaining SIMs or telecommunication identifiers through fraud, cheating, or impersonation. The ministry said violations can attract imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of up to ₹50 lakh, or both, while Section 42(7) makes such offences cognizable and non-bailable and Section 42(6) applies the same punishment to people who abet or promote them.
The DoT advised citizens not to use, procure, or assemble devices such as modems, modules, SIM Boxes, or other equipment with configurable or tampered IMEIs. The department also warned against procuring SIM cards through fake documents, transferring SIM cards obtained in one person’s name to others who may misuse them, and using apps, websites, or other means to modify Calling Line Identity or other telecommunication identifiers.
The DoT said citizens can use the Sanchar Saathi platform to verify IMEI details for a handset, including the brand name, model name, and manufacturer information. The department said subscribers who loan, rent, or mule SIM cards registered in their own name for cyber fraud or other unlawful activity may face legal liability.
Relevant questions
What penalty did India’s DoT cite for IMEI tampering?
The Ministry of Communications said violations can lead to up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to ₹50 lakh, or both. It also said the offences are cognizable and non-bailable under Section 42(7) of the Telecommunications Act, 2023.
What actions did the DoT warn citizens not to take with SIM cards?
The DoT warned against obtaining SIM cards through fake documents, fraud, cheating, or impersonation. It also warned against transferring, selling, loaning, renting, or handing SIM cards registered in one person’s name to others who may misuse them.
How can users check a handset’s IMEI details in India?
The DoT said users can verify a handset’s IMEI details through the Sanchar Saathi platform. The service shows the device’s brand name, model name, and manufacturer information.
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