The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission of Sri Lanka (TRC) has announced the introduction of a new software system aimed at identifying and blocking unregistered mobile phones, effective from January 28. This initiative is designed to curb the use of unauthorized devices across the country.
According to TRC Director General Air Vice Marshal (Retired) Bandula Herath, the new system will automatically detect unregistered mobile phones, ensuring enhanced control over the use of such devices. Currently, there are approximately 27.5 million mobile connections in Sri Lanka, and the TRC has assured that no existing phones will be disrupted under this new regulation.
Mandatory Registration for New Phones
From January 28 onwards, all newly purchased mobile phones must be registered with the TRC. The IMEI numbers and SIM card details of these devices will be added to the TRC’s “White List.” If an unregistered phone is detected, a notification in Sinhala, Tamil, and English will be sent to the user, alerting them about the device’s status.
Special Provisions for Tourists and Gifted Devices
Foreign tourists and individuals bringing phones as gifts or for personal use will have the option to register their devices. Proof of purchase or a written declaration will be required for registration. For tourists, the IMEI number of their phones will be automatically registered upon purchasing a local SIM card using their passport. These SIM cards will be deactivated once the tourists leave the country.
Impact on the Market
Currently, TRC-approved phones with official stickers are sold at higher prices, while unregistered devices are available at lower costs in local markets. However, the new system is expected to standardize prices and prevent the sale of the same phone models at varying prices across different locations.
Benefits for Consumers
The TRC highlights that large-scale importers often benefit from discounts, which are not passed on to consumers. With the new system, increased market competition is expected to lead to fairer pricing for mobile phones, offering better value for consumers.
Key Objectives of the New System
The primary goals of this initiative include:
- Controlling illegally imported mobile phones
- Preventing mobile phone-related fraud and crimes
- Ensuring consumer safety
- Formalizing the mobile phone market
- Maintaining fair pricing
The TRC has called for the cooperation of all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of this system. It is anticipated that this move will make mobile phone usage in Sri Lanka more secure and regulated in the future.