The regulatory entity, in coordination with the Ministry of the Interior, detected that one million computers have an invalid IMEI code, so they will be blocked as part of their work against illegal trade in these equipment.

The Supervisory Agency for Private Investment in Telecommunications (Osiptel) ordered the operating companies to block one million cell phones with IMEI invalid on Wednesday, September 19.

This provision is part of the actions to combat the illegal trade of stolen equipment, according to the supervising entity. This measure is adopted under Legislative Decree 1338 that created the National Registry of Mobile Terminal Equipment for Security (RENTESEG).

The decree is aimed at preventing and combating the illegal trade in mobile equipment and the strengthening of security, and at the request of the Ministry of the Interior (Mininter).

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CELLULAR WILL BE BLOCKED?

When a cell phone is purchased in a place of doubtful origin and without warranty, it is possible that the device has an invalid IMEI code. That is why it is recommended to purchase cell phones in formal establishments.

To see the IMEI on the phone, dial * # 06 #. The number that appears must match the IMEI found on the housing or label behind the battery. If it does not match, it means that this IMEI code has been altered or is invalid.

If the user does not return the blocked equipment to the operator, the line is not lost, but the telephony service will remain suspended until the equipment is delivered with an invalid IMEI, according to Osiptel.

An invalid IMEI is a code that has not been assigned to any manufacturer of cellular equipment and, therefore, does not have the characteristics established by the GSMA to operate in Peru. It may have been altered by agents or unscrupulous in a stolen phone.

In the case of the blockade that will be carried out on September 19, the operating companies must send a text message to the owners of the equipment whose IMEI is invalid.

In this message, the user of the blockade will be informed that it will be effective after two business days following receipt of said message.

WHAT IS THE IMEI?

The IMEI code is a 15-digit number with which all mobile equipment counts. This is a unique numeric code that identifies a cellular team worldwide.

Osiptel, in coordination with the Mininter, detected one million mobile terminal equipment, whose IMEIs are invalid. This means that their codes have not been assigned to any manufacturer of cellular equipment and, therefore, do not have the standard features established by the global association of mobile communications providers and manufacturers (GSMA).