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IMEI Number

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has made it mandatory for mobile phone manufacturers to register the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI).

Why in the News?

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has made it mandatory for mobile phone manufacturers to register the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI).

Key Points:

About

IMEI Number

  • The IMEI is a unique 15 digits number which gives a phone’s unique identity but there are two IMEI numbers in the case of dual SIM phones 
  • It is used to identify a device on a mobile network when a user uses the Internet or places a call through it.
  • The government introduced the Indian Counterfeited Device Restriction in 2021 to issue IMEI certificates for the import of mobile devices through various customs ports.

Application

  • Using the IMEI number, it becomes easier to track the phone in theft situations.
  • The IMEI number can also be used to verify the authenticity of the phone.