Description

Copyright infringement not intended

Picture Courtesy: UNIINDIA

Context:

Telangana has emerged as the top-performing state for recovering stolen and lost mobile phones through the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR) portal.

About Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR)

It is a centralized digital system developed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to combat mobile theft and fraud.

Key Features:

International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) Tracking: Uses a 15-digit IMEI number (unique to every phone) to block/track devices, even if SIM cards are changed.
The CEIR database sorts phones into three lists:

White List: These are authorized phones with valid IMEI numbers, allowed to connect to networks without issues.
Grey List: These phones are also authorized but flagged for observation, perhaps due to suspicious activity.
Black List: These are unauthorized, stolen, or lost phones with IMEI numbers blocked from all networks, rendering them unusable.

Centralized Database: Shares real-time data with telecom operators nationwide to ensure stolen phones cannot function on any network.

How does CEIR work?

Report Loss: Users file an FIR and submit the IMEI number, phone details, and FIR copy on the CEIR portal.
Block Device: The IMEI is added to the Black List, making the phone unusable on all networks.
Track & Recover: Authorities use CEIR’s tracking tools to locate the device, even if the SIM is swapped.
Unblock if Found: Users can request unblocking through the portal using their request ID.

Must Read Articles:

IMEI NUMBER

Source:

UNIINDIA

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. What is the main objective of the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR);

A) To monitor internet usage across mobile networks.

B) To block stolen or lost mobile devices by maintaining a database of IMEI numbers.

C) To track the location of all active mobile users in real time.

D) To regulate the sale of counterfeit smartphones.

Answer: B

Explanation:

The CEIR maintains a centralized database of International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers to identify and block stolen or lost mobile devices. It ensures that such devices cannot connect to any mobile network, thereby discouraging theft and misuse.