NCC Checks Circulation Of Counterfeit And Theft Of Mobile Phones
Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC), says the Device Checker Platform recently introduced was aimed at checking circulation of counterfeit, theft and unauthorised mobile phones in the country.
The NCC Kano Zonal Controller, Mr Maigana Gidado stated this during a press conference on Thursday in Kano, to update the public on the Nigerian Communications Commission’s implementation of the device.
He therefore called on the public to cultivate the habit of verifying device status before purchasing them to avoid buying counterfeit, cloned and unauthorised mobile phones.
According to him, the Device Checker Platform, is an initiative designed to strengthen Type Approval compliance, protect consumers, and enhance the integrity of communications devices used on Nigerian networks.
“As Nigeria’s digital economy continues to expand, it is important that devices connected to our networks comply with established technical and regulatory standards.
“The Commission has made significant progress in implementing this initiative. Recently, the NCC streamlined the licensing and regularisation process that enabled a significant number of device dealers in Kano State to get licensed,” he said.
In addition, he said, the Commission undertook stakeholder sensitisation engagements with importers and other industry participants in Lagos and other parts of the country to deepen awareness on the implementation of the policy.
“To further simplify compliance processes, the Commission has developed a user-friendly Device Checker application that enables authorised stakeholders to quickly scan device IMEIs and upload information directly to the platform, improving efficiency and ease of compliance,” he said.
He said device checker was not a surveillance tool, but designed to protect customers against buying clone mobile phones.
“It does not access personal data, messages, photographs, contacts, financial information, or any other private content stored on a device.
“Its purpose is limited to device identification and regulatory compliance verification,” he said
Gidado revealed that the Commission has also enhanced resources available on its website for consumers and industry stakeholders.
“Consumers can verify the status of a device before purchase through the Check Your Device portal.
“Stakeholders, including manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers, can access the Type Approval & Device Verification Guide at www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceCheckerGuide for guidance on their responsibilities under the Device Checker framework.
“Similarly, organisations seeking to obtain Equipment Type Approval can access application requirements and procedures through the Type Approval section of the Commission’s website,” he said
He noted that all those were intended to make compliance easier for industry participants while empowering consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.
“We encourage consumers to patronise reputable and licensed dealers, and utilise the Commission’s online resources and consumer support channels.
“We also urge manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers to familiarise themselves with the Type Approval & Device Verification Guide and ensure full compliance with the Commission’s Type Approval requirements,” he urged
Gidado added that NCC remained committed to protecting consumers, promoting fair competition, strengthening network integrity, and fostering a trusted communications ecosystem for all Nigerians
