By: Staff Writer
January 30, Colombo (LNW): The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) is introducing a mandatory International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) registration system to block unauthorized mobile phones.
Effective January 29, 2025, all SIM-enabled devices must be registered with TRCSL to function on local networks. Devices connected before January 28, 2025, are exempt.
To check compliance, users can send an SMS to 1909 with the format: IMEI <15-digit IMEI number>. TRCSL urges the public to purchase only TRCSL-approved mobile phones.
TRCSL Director General, Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Bandula Herath, stated, “We request the public not to buy unapproved mobile phones. A new automated system will soon be implemented to block such devices. This initiative aims to reduce illegal activities and protect users.”
The IMEI registration system is designed to curb unauthorized phone imports, strengthen individual identification, and enhance security. TRCSL expects that, over time, legally approved mobile phone prices will decrease due to wider market availability.
All radio frequency (RF)-emitting devices, including cell phones, wireless networks, drones, and industrial and medical applications, must be registered with TRCSL by January 28, 2025. Without registration, these devices will be prohibited from operating in Sri Lanka.
To comply, users must obtain permission by submitting the relevant model number. This measure aims to ensure high-quality, certified electronic devices in the market and prevent the sale of illegal imports.
The government has suffered significant tax losses due to unregistered electronic devices flooding the market, making regulatory enforcement a priority.
TRCSL’s primary responsibility is to take legal action against illegal traders and prevent the sale of unregistered devices. An automated system to identify registered devices will be operational by the end of January 2025.
Unregistered IMEI-enabled RF-emitting devices will no longer function on Sri Lankan telecom networks after January 28. However, foreigners visiting Sri Lanka will not be affected when using their personal electronic devices.
If individuals bring new IMEI-enabled RF-emitting devices into Sri Lanka, they must register them through TRCSL’s online system. This requirement does not apply to devices already connected to local networks before January 28.
An IMEI is a unique 15-digit number assigned to every mobile phone, typically found inside the device or displayed by dialing *#06# on the keypad.
This number helps identify the device’s manufacturer and marketing name. To verify a phone’s IMEI, users can send an SMS to 1909 in the format: IMEI <15-digit IMEI number>.
By implementing this system, TRCSL aims to streamline mobile device tracking, improve security, and ensure compliance with telecommunications regulations in Sri Lanka.
