Once again, the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRCSL) is making International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) registration compulsory. As per its latest notice, TRCSL is implementing its IMEI registration system where unregistered mobile devices will be disconnected from local networks.
This will take effect from January 29, 2025, though phones already connected to any of the telecom operators’ networks are unaffected. the public is advised to purchase SIM-enabled devices only from vendors with a valid TRCSL Vendor Licence.
Verifying your IMEI number
- Find your IMEI number from your device’s original packaging or by dialing *#06#
- Verify the IMEI number by texting IMEI <space> <15-digit IMEI number> to 1909
The IMEI is a 15-digit unique number attached to your SIM. This means you will have two IMEIs for dual-SIM phones.
Additionally, TRCSL should approve any SIM-enabled device imported or brought into Sri Lanka for personal use. The full process is here.
The move is meant to curb device-related fraud and improve the local telecom network’s security. Back in November, TRCSL announced that it was conducting an islandwide awareness program to get the public to verify their SIM-enabled devices.
We’ve been here before
In case all this sounds familiar, it’s because TRCSL made this announcement a few times over the years. In fact, TRCSL said it was going to block devices with unregistered phones back in 2014. A decade later, the regulator is making the same announcement, this time with a deadline.
It remains to be seen if enforcement will go into effect as announced or if this pans out like the previous announcements.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings