After a long delay, Bangladesh is finally set to block unauthorised mobile phones from December — a major step to curb digital fraud, enhance network security, and revive the country’s struggling handset manufacturing industry.
Officials, however, confirmed that handsets already in use will remain operational for now; ensuring consumers do not face sudden disruption.
Speaking at a press conference at the BTRC headquarters on Wednesday, Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, special assistant to the chief adviser on posts, telecommunications, and information technology, said inaccurate user information and widespread use of illegal devices continue to hinder crime control efforts.
Quoting a Bangladesh Bank report, he said 73% of digital fraud is linked to unauthorised handsets, while the National Board of Revenue loses around Tk500 crore annually in unpaid duties. He added that devices identified as illegal would initially be placed on a grey list rather than immediately shut down.
Tayeb emphasised that the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) is not merely a technical platform, but a security mechanism that verifies device authenticity through National ID, SIM registration, and IMEI data, helping reduce fraud, identity forgery, and irregularities in mobile financial transactions.
BTRC Chairman Md Emdad Ul Bari said the commission is continuously working to expand smartphone use, provide secure telecom services nationwide, and broaden digital and network coverage.
He explained that NEIR will make both mobile phones and SIMs easily traceable and that guidelines are being developed in line with existing telecom policies.
LND/SAE
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