What is CEIR, how will it help track lost smartphones
You will soon be able to easily track your lost or stolen smartphone and block it from being used further, thanks to the government's upcoming initiative called the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR). The new system, headed by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), is likely to be launched this week. The tentative launch date is May 17. Let's see how the CEIR works.
Why does this story matter?
Losing your smartphone is troublesome, considering the personal data it stores, including photos, chats, and even banking credentials. Apple has a tracking system in place via the Apple ID, allowing users to track their iPhone if it is misplaced. In comparison, Android users don't have a sophisticated tracking mechanism as of now. However, the CEIR system will likely change things for the better.
How does CEIR system work?
Last year, the government made it mandatory that the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number, a 15-digit unique numeric identifier, should be disclosed before a mobile is sold in India. This allows the mobile networks to have access to the list of approved IMEI numbers, which in turn will help monitor the entry of any unauthorized mobile phone on their network.
CEIR to block cloned handsets from being used
The CEIR system will allow telecom operators to access the IMEI number of the device and the associated mobile number. This is already being used in some states to find misplaced phones. Hackers usually change the IMEI number of stolen phones to prevent them from being tracked or blocked. Moreover, the CEIR system will block cloned handsets and prevent them from being used.
How to block phone's IMEI number?
You can block your phone's IMEI number if it is lost or stolen via the official CEIR website. Follow the instructions given on the portal, and once you submit the "blocking request" on the CEIR portal, your phone will be blocked within 24 hours. "After the phone has been blocked, it cannot be used on any network across India," according to the official website.
What happens if someone tries to use blocked phone?
"If anyone tries to use the blocked mobile phone, its traceability is generated," mentions the official CEIR website. If you have found your lost mobile phone, however, it can be unblocked from the portal.
CEIR system to launch on May 17
The Centre for Department of Telematics (CDoT) has been testing the pilot stage of the CEIR system in some telecom circles, including Delhi, Karnataka, and the North East region. The CEIR system is now ready for pan-India deployment, said an official from the Department of Telecommunication. "CEIR system is scheduled for pan-India launch on May 17," they added.
