DoT Issues Advisory Warning Against Fraudulent Sim Procurement, IMEI Tampering, and More in India: Strict Penalties to Be Charged Under the Telecommunications Act 2023

India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has now issued a new advisory warning aiming to safeguard users and ensure safety across the telecom network. People indulging in activities such as fraudulent sim procurement, IMEI tampering, and more will be strictly penalized under the Telecommunications Act of 2023.

Here’s more about it.

Department of Telecommunications (DoT) – New Advisory Warning Against Fraudulent Activities Issued

In a statement made recently by the Ministry of Communications of India, as the use of mobile connectivity in the country increases rapidly, the misuse of SIM cards and IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) for fraudulent activities are rising alongside, posing a great concern over citizen safety and security. DoT has now imposed strict measures to prevent such activities, and all citizens are asked to make use of the Sanchar Saathi mobile app and portal for verifying and securing both their phone connections and devices.

Speaking more, as per the advisory warning that has been shared, if a SIM that has been issued in a person’s name is used for cyber fraud or other fraudulent activities, this person can also be charged as an offender and be punished. People who take SIM cards in their name and give it away to wrongdoers also fall in this category. Relying on fake KYC for SIM procurement, tampering with the IMEI number, use of SIM boxes (assembling or possessing), and accessing applications to modify Calling Line Identity are all chargeable offences.

Section 42(3)(c) and Section 42(3)(e) of the Telecommunications Act 2023 prevents tampering with telecommunication identifiers and acquiring SIM cards illegally. Under Section 42(3)(f), the possession of SIM boxes, modems or modules, and tampered Mobile handsets are also criminalized and it is a punishable offence. People who aid in these activities are also guilty as per Section 42(6). Up to three years of imprisonment and up to INR 50 lakh fine can be charged (any one or both). These actions are also cognizable, and no bail will be granted to the accused.