A case of dangerous phone cloning has emerged, where 150,000 counterfeit mobile phones with the same IMEI number have been discovered. The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a unique 15-digit number used to track lost or stolen phones. Every mobile device, whether it's a smartphone or a feature phone, has its own unique IMEI number.
When multiple phones share the same IMEI number, it becomes challenging to determine which phone is involved in illegal activities. This particular case of phone cloning has been reported in Bangladesh, where 150,000 mobile phones with identical IMEI numbers were found. The statement was made by Shahid Alam, Chief Corporate and Regulatory Officer of Robi, a mobile phone operator in Bangladesh, during a seminar held by the Directorate of Telecommunications in Dhaka.
Shahid Alam stated, "More than 150,000 mobile phones with the same IMEI number are in use in Bangladesh, and all these phones are fake." However, Bangladesh's former Chief Technology Officer AKM Murshid informed the BBC that the actual number of fake mobile phones may be lower than 150,000. AKM Murshid also indicated that for some years, 800,000 mobile phones were operating concurrently with the same IMEI number on an operator's network. It raises concerns about how so many mobile phones with the same IMEI number can operate simultaneously.
The IMEI number is a 15-digit unique identifier programmed into a mobile device during its manufacturing. However, some mobile phones may have 17-digit IMEI numbers. The IMEI number serves as the identity of a mobile phone, revealing its manufacturing location and the area in which it is being used.
Bangladesh utilises the Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) to locate devices based on their IMEI numbers. This system is designed to easily identify mobile phones with the same IMEI number. You can check your phone's IMEI number by dialing *#06#.
Cybercriminals can clone phones using two methods for fraudulent purposes: SIM cloning and IMEI cloning. The Cyber and Special Crime Department of Bangladesh Police has carried out raids at multiple locations, uncovering a gang involved in producing fake handsets. Phones with counterfeit IMEI numbers are extensively used in cybercrimes.
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FAQs
Cloned IMEI numbers: Scammers can clone the IMEI number of a legitimate device and use it on a counterfeit device. This makes the counterfeit device appear genuine when checked using online databases. Always verify the IMEI number through multiple sources and be cautious when buying devices from unofficial sellers.
What can a scammer do with an IMEI number? ›
Yes, it is extremely important that you always keep your IMEI number safe, because it could be used for hacking. One of the most common ways to use IMEI for hacking is known as SIM card cloning. In this process, hackers will create a duplicate version of your smartphone and use it to hack into your original device.
Can two different phones have the same IMEI number? ›
An IMEI is a unique identifying number that each mobile device possesses. A digital fingerprint enables law enforcement to locate and recognize stolen or misplaced phones. IMEI phone numbers are typically single, although specific devices have dual IMEI capabilities.
What happens if your IMEI is cloned? ›
Here are some of the potential consequences: Unauthorized Use of Your Device: If someone else uses your stolen IMEI on their device, it could lead to unauthorized access to mobile networks and services. This can result in charges for calls, texts, or data usage that you did not authorize.
How to identify fake phones? ›
If you suspect the phone might be fake, perform the following manual checks for a closer inspection: Go to Settings and check the information about the device: IMEI number, model number, RAM, operating system, etc. Compare this data with the information provided by the manufacturer: it should match.
Do fake iPhones have real IMEI numbers? ›
Genuine Apple iPhones always come with an IMEI number. If the phone lacks this unique identifier, there's a high probability that it's a counterfeit model. If no information is shown, the phone is likely a counterfeit.
How do I deactivate my IMEI number? ›
Call up your mobile network provider's customer service line. Inform them that your phone has been lost or stolen and provide them with the IMEI number. They can then proceed to block your phone, ensuring that the device cannot be used on any network with any SIM card.
Can IMEI be changed on a phone? ›
An IMEI is permanently recorded in every phone at the factory once. It cannot be erased or altered at all in devices made after around 1993 without replacing a specific chip (or IC) on the mainboard, or by replacing the mainboard itself. Performing a factory reset will restore the original device IMEI.
Why is my phone showing two IMEI numbers? ›
Why does my phone have 2 IMEI? If your device has two IMEI numbers then it has two modems for SIM access. If it only has one actual slot for a SIM card then it would have a built in e-SIM in it also. It has two SIM modems for two different networks to be used by the phone.
What are the signs of a cloned phone? ›
What are the signs that indicate my phone might be cloned? If your phone has been cloned, you might notice unexpected texts asking for a device restart, unfamiliar calls in your history, or sudden changes in your phone's behavior.
Look out for issues with receiving and sending text messages and calls, loss of access to your online account with your phone carrier, service change notifications from your carrier, or any other unusual activity.
Can someone hack your phone if they have the IMEI? ›
A: No, hackers cannot directly hack into your accounts using just your IMEI. However, they can potentially use your IMEI along with other information to launch attacks and gain unauthorized access to your accounts.
How can I check if an IMEI number is real? ›
STEPS FOR IMEI VERIFICATION
- Type *#06# in your mobile device. ...
- Enter the displayed code in the box below and click on "check my device".
- The Mode and Manufacturer of your mobile device will be displayed.
- If the IMEI display a different model, please check with your vendor as your mobile device may not be genuine.
Somebody can do something with your IMEI number, here are some things they can do: Track your phone. If your phone is stolen, the person who stole it can use your IMEI number to track your phone's location. Block your phone from being used on a network.
What makes an IMEI invalid? ›
This only means that there has been some tampering with the internal parts of the device. Usually, an invalid IMEI issue arises when users try to download a software update that is not completely safe to download yet. Or, when a user tries to manipulate the software inside a smartphone.
Can someone copy IMEI number? ›
In the past, some criminals used IMEI cloning. They would copy the IMEI of a legitimate phone and program it onto a stolen phone. Then they could register the stolen phone on a network. With advancements in network security, cell networks can now detect and prevent IMEI cloning.
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