Nigeria tightens controls on fake phones
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Punch
Illustrative image · William Fortunato · Pexels · Licence PexelsThe Nigerian Communications Commission is tightening controls on counterfeit, cloned or unauthorised phones through its device verification platform. The system lets consumers check phone approval and industry operators submit identifiers, according to Punch.
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is stepping up controls against counterfeit, cloned or unauthorised phones to better protect consumers and enforce technical standards. Its director of the Lagos regional office, Tunji Jimoh, presented the measures on Thursday at a press briefing in Lagos, reports Punch.
The NCC has launched an online platform, Device Checker, which allows buyers to check whether a phone or another device connected to a SIM card has received the required approval. Consumers can enter the IMEI number, an identifier generally consisting of 15 digits and accessible by dialling *#06# on a phone.
A separate application allows authorised industry operators to scan IMEI numbers and send the information to the commission. The NCC’s device management system also checks this data and maintains a central register of identifiers.
Nigeria’s 2003 Communications Act requires manufacturers, suppliers and relevant service providers to obtain approval before selling or using their equipment. Tunji Jimoh also reported work to regularise device sellers in Kano State and awareness sessions for importers in Lagos and other parts of the country.
