Unauthorised mobile phones to be blocked from Dec 16

• Bangladesh to block unauthorised phones December
• Existing devices spared, users face no disruption
• NEIR system aims to curb illegal imports
• Industry hopes move boosts local manufacturing

After years of delay, Bangladesh is finally set to block unauthorised mobile handsets from December 16 this year in a move expected to revive the country's struggling local handset manufacturing industry.

However, existing unauthorised phones currently in use will not be blocked, ensuring that users face no immediate disruption.

Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, special assistant to the chief adviser on posts, telecommunications and information technology, made the announcement at a press conference on the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) at the BTRC office in Dhaka yesterday.

The NEIR system identifies and blocks stolen or unauthorised mobile devices using International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers, which are unique 15-digit codes assigned to each mobile device.

The initiative, first launched in 2021, was delayed due to technical challenges and concerns that blocking millions of unauthorised phones could trigger public backlash.

The initiative, first launched in 2021, was delayed due to technical challenges and concerns that blocking unauthorised phones could trigger public backlash

During earlier trials, authorities found that hundreds of feature phones shared identical IMEI numbers, complicating efforts to implement the system smoothly.

The BTRC initiated the NEIR scheme to curb illegal handset imports, reduce theft, stop the use of unregistered devices, and protect domestic handset manufacturers from unfair competition.

The initiative also aims to help law enforcement agencies trace crimes committed using such phones.

The illegal handset market accounts for over 40 percent of total sales, depriving the government of an estimated Tk 2,000 crore in annual revenue and discouraging local production, according to industry sources.

Industry insiders hope that the NEIR's full implementation will finally give domestic manufacturers breathing space after months of sluggish sales.

Taiyeb said once the system is launched, it will play an effective role in crime prevention, since devices used in theft or criminal activities can be easily identified and blocked. It will also help reduce the number of counterfeit handsets, he added.

"It will be possible to effectively prevent MFS fraud, SIM-related scams and other digital deceptions. In addition, we expect that eKYC verification will become more robust, strengthening security across the telecom sector and increasing government revenue," he said.

BTRC Chairman Maj Gen (retd) Md Emdad ul Bari said mobile phone manufacturers have financed the integration of the system.

He assured that the BTRC will not abruptly shut down any handset and that users will be given clear instructions and sufficient time to complete the necessary steps so that they do not face any inconvenience.

HOW THE SYSTEM WORKS

At its core, the NEIR database records the unique IMEI number of every handset, providing authorities and users with the ability to verify legitimacy, block stolen devices, and prevent illegal or counterfeit phones from accessing local networks.

When a mobile handset connects to a network, its IMEI is checked against the NEIR database. If the device is registered and legitimate, it functions normally. Devices with fake, duplicated or unregistered IMEIs are automatically blocked, preventing network access.

This verification process ensures that the telecom ecosystem remains secure and reliable.

Consumers can actively participate in this process through simple verification steps.

Before purchasing a new phone, users can confirm its legitimacy by sending an SMS in the format KYD [IMEI number] to a dedicated BTRC shortcode. A return message immediately indicates whether the handset is valid, enabling buyers to avoid grey-market or counterfeit devices.

For phones legally brought from abroad or received as gifts, users must create an account on the NEIR portal, submit the device's IMEI and upload supporting documents such as passport copies, immigration stamps and purchase receipts.

Only after verification will the handset be permanently allowed on the network.

The system also supports ownership transfer and deregistration. When a handset is sold or gifted, the previous owner must deregister it using the NEIR portal, mobile app or USSD channel, providing authentication through the last four digits of their national ID. Corporate users must submit employee or key contact details to ensure smooth deregistration of company devices.

Security features are integrated throughout the NEIR system. Lost or stolen phones can be instantly blocked, making them unusable across all networks. The system is designed for universal accessibility: users without internet access can still use NEIR services via USSD codes or by visiting mobile operator customer care centres.