CEIR service now available for all users; How to block or unblock IMEI of lost or stolen phone

Mobile phones have become an essential part of our lives, but they also pose a risk of being lost or stolen. To help mobile phone users protect their devices and data, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has launched a Central Equipment Identity Registry (CEIR) portal that allows users to block the IMEI of their lost or stolen mobile phones.

CEIR is a centralized system that connects to the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) database of all the mobile operators in India. IMEI is a unique 15-digit number that identifies each mobile device. Using the CEIR service, users can block the IMEI of a lost or stolen phone across all networks in India, which prevents it from being used by anyone else. Users can also unblock the IMEI if the mobile device is recovered.

To block a lost or stolen phone through the CEIR portal, users need to file the FIR with the local police and keep a copy of the report. Next, they need to get a duplicate SIM Card for the lost number because it is required to provide it as the primary mobile number while submitting the request for blocking IMEI. Users will receive OTP on the primary number. Be advised, as per TRAI’s regulation, the SMS facility on the re-issued SIM is enabled after 24 hours of SIM activation.

After that, users can fill out an online form for blocking the IMEI of the lost or stolen phone and submit it, along with a copy of the police report, identity proof, and mobile invoice. After submitting the form, users will get a Request ID that can be used for checking the status, such as pending verification, blocked, etc., and unblocking the IMEI in the future. Alternatively, users can submit the request for blocking the IMEI through the State Police. Once the request is verified by CEIR, the IMEI will be blocked within 24 hours across all networks in India.

To unblock a recovered phone, the user can fill out the request registration form for unblocking the IMEI. Once the request is verified by CEIR, the IMEI will be unblocked across all networks. Users will also receive an SMS confirmation for unblocking the mobile device.

CEIR also provides the Know Your Mobile (KYM) feature that allows users to check the validity of mobile devices even before buying them. IMEI is printed on the mobile packaging and can be found on the mobile invoice. Users can also check the IMEI number by dialing *#06#. IMEI will show on the mobile screen. To know the validity, users can type KYM <15-digit IMEI number> from their mobile and send the SMS to 14422. Users can also use the KYM app via the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

CEIR portal aims to reduce the sale of stolen or lost mobile phones and discourage theft by making them unusable with any mobile network in India. The service is now available to all users across the country.