Starting Today, Cellphones without Valid IMEI are Going to Ban

If you have a Chinese mobile, most of which do not have IMEI numbers or hava a duplicate IMEI number, there is need to worry, as the ICA (Indian Cellular Association) will be imposing a ban on the use of such cellphones starting last midnight.
IMEI numbers or International Mobile Equipment Identity numbers are unique numbers assigned to each handset. In case of loss or theft of cellphones, these can be used to track your mobile. 

Often, stolen phones are sold with their IMEI number erased, or using an IMEI number from another cellphone. As such, ensuring that each cellphone which is operational is using a unique IMEI number has obvious benefits.

Additionally, terrorists can take advantage of blank or cloned IMEI to make their phones difficult to track. This is a good move for the security of the country, and will additionally aid in reduction of cellphone thefts too.

If you are not too sure about your phone (and even otherwise) you can test the authenticity of your IMEI number by sending a message to 53232 "IMEI " You can find out your IMEI number by pressing *#06# on your cellphone.

For people who think their IMEI number is not authentic and wish to get a genuine IMEI number implanted into your cellphone, you can visit http://www.msai.in/abt_imei.html for a list of MSAI (Mobile Standards Alliance of India) centres. All you need is a working handset and a proof of ID and Rs. 199/- for your sins.

What is an IMEI Number:
  * IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is unique 15 digit identification number of the Mobile Handset. It is like the registration number of your vehicle.

  * One can check the IMEI no of the Mobile Handset by pressing *#06#

  * IMEI numbers are being allotted by five bodies authorized by GSMA.

  * From IMEI number one can identify the make and model of the handset.

  * To verify the IMEI number one can send a message “IMEI <15 digit IMEI No.> to 53232

  * No two mobile handsets in the world should have the same IMEI number.

  * IMEI number is an important tool for the handset tracking.
 

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