Attention mobile users! You could be held liable if SIM card issued in your name is ‘misused’; check DoT advisory

The Department of Telecom (DoT) has issued an advisory, cautioning citizens against using mobile devices with tampered IMEI numbers​, and warned that mobile subscribers may be held liable if a SIM card issued in their name is misused for criminal acts such as cyber fraud and other illegal activities.

What did DoT advisory say?

In an official statement, the department warned citizens against purchasing or using assembled telecom devices like modems, modules, SIM boxes which have configurable or tampered IMEI, and also cautioned against procuring mobile SIM cards through forged documents, fraud, or impersonation​.

It also warned users against transferring or handing over SIM cards procured in their name to others as the person in whose name the SIM card has been issued will be liable if it is found to have been used to carry out any illegal activity such as cyber fraud.

“Citizens should be aware that using devices with tampered IMEI numbers, procuring SIM cards through fraudulent means, or transferring or giving their SIM cards to others who misuse them for cyber fraud can result in serious legal consequences. The original user may also be held liable as an offender in cases where SIM cards procured in their name are subsequently misused,” the DoT statement said.

DoT warns against modifying CLI services

The telecom department also warned against the use of mobile applications or websites that modify Calling Line Identity (CLI) or other telecommunication identifiers​, warning that doing so may invite stringent legal action under the Telecommunications Act, 2023.

The act provides for stringent penalties for tampering with telecommunication identifiers including IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number of mobile handsets and other devices, including imprisonment for up to three years, and fines up to Rs 50 lakh, or both.

Additionally, the Telecommunications (Telecom Cyber Security) Rules, 2024 prohibit any person to alter the IMEI or use, produce or possess equipment in which IMEI can be configured or changed or altered, the DoT said, while advising citizens to verify IMEI details through the Sanchar Saathi portal or the Sanchar Saathi mobile app, which displays the device’s brand name, model, and manufacturer information.

“The government has also implemented the Sanchar Saathi initiative, providing digital tools for citizens to verify and secure their mobile connections. The government has put in place strict checks to prevent misuse of telecom resources and ensure a secure telecommunications ecosystem for all citizens,” the department said.

(With PTI inputs)