To prevent misuse of data stored on smartphones that are lost or stolen, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has partnered with the Center for Development of Telematics (CDoT) to create a database of such mobile devices, based on reports.

As per DoT's instructions, CDoT will create the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR), a database of all stolen or lost mobile devices that have now been put up for sale by retailers using spoofed IMEI numbers. CEIR will act as a universal database for telecom operators where details of blacklisted mobile devices can be added, so that appropriate action can be taken.

As lost or stolen smartphones are often sold after illegally changing their IMEI numbers, CDoT will implement a system to send SMS/notifications to handsets with the same IMEI number to detect devices that have a fake IMEI number. This move will reportedly block devices from being reactivated with a new SIM card from another carrier, ensuring data security.

The pilot project will first be implemented in Maharashtra, with the aim of onboarding all service providers and covering the entire telecom circle of the state by the end of March 2018. Regarding its new initiative, the DoT said, "The decision to implement CEIR through IPTC, BSNL has been reviewed and revised. Now it has decided to entrust the work with research, design, development and installation of CEIR systems to CDoT.”