In a fourth process, telecommunications companies are programmed to block cell phones that have been detected as duplicates or clones. As of Monday, February 26, these mobiles are associated with a total of 250,291 lines in service. This measure is carried out as part of efforts to combat the theft and illegal trade of mobile devices, as announced by the Supervisory Body for Private Investment in Telecommunications (Osiptel).
Since November 2023, by order of Osiptel, 18,487 IMEIs that were found duplicate or cloned have been blocked, and that were linked to a total of 66,154 mobile lines.
How do I know if they will block my line?
Between February 5 and 18, telecommunications companies sent text messages (SMS) to users whose cell phones were identified as duplicates or clones, informing them that their devices would be blocked today, Monday, February 26. This was done so that users can take necessary action in case they believe they acquired the device legitimately.
What to do if users receive this message?
If someone receives the SMS and believes that their phone was purchased legitimately, they should go to their phone company with the device to carry out the necessary verifications.
In no case should people whose phones are blocked seek third parties to change the IMEI code, as this would constitute a crime punishable by imprisonment of 4 to 6 years.
What does it mean to have a cloned IMEI?
It occurs when the same IMEI is associated with several mobile devices connected to different services at the same time. This usually happens when the original IMEI of a phone, typically stolen, is altered, which is illegal under the law.
To ensure greater security, it is recommended that users purchase their phones from legal and established stores. Also, before purchasing a second-hand phone, it is important to verify that the physical IMEI (found on the back of the phone, under the battery or in the SIM card tray) matches the logical IMEI (found displayed on the screen when you dial *#06#). If the numbers do not match, it means that the phone has an altered (cloned or invalid) IMEI.
Check your IMEI
In case you want to check if your IMEI is cloned, you can enter the digital tool Check your IMEI (https://www.osiptel.gob.pe/sistemas/sigem.html) of Osiptel to verify if the equipment they have or they expect to buy is not reported as stolen (stolen, pilfered) or cloned.
What is Osiptel?
The Supervisory Body for Private Investment in Telecommunications (Osiptel) is a Government entity that has the responsibility of regulating and supervising the telecommunications services market, guaranteeing the rights of users. Among its main functions are:
- Encourage services to be accessible and affordable for all.
- Improve the quality of telecommunications services.
- Ensure adequate and efficient attention to users.
Source: Larepublica
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