NCC launches DMS to block fake, stolen phones from mobile networks

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has announced the implementation of a Device Management System (DMS) designed to block fake, cloned, and stolen phones from accessing Nigeria’s mobile networks.

The system, which has been in development for nearly a decade, will track mobile devices through their International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers across the country’s telecommunications networks.

The initiative follows Nigeria’s recent nationwide migration to the NINAuth digital ID verification platform, demonstrating the country’s commitment to modernising its telecommunications infrastructure.

Operating through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework, the DMS marks a significant step in regulating Nigeria’s telecommunications device market.

The initiative addresses the prevalent issue of counterfeit and unregistered phones in the country, where estimates indicate that up to 40 per cent of mobile devices and tech gadgets are fake or substandard.

The challenge mirrors similar issues faced by other African nations, such as Uganda, which recently launched its own “Simu Klear” system to address counterfeit devices.

According to the NCC, the implementation will proceed gradually to minimise disruption to legitimate users.

“Substandard and fake devices can be prevented from connecting to the networks due to the harmful impact these devices have on the quality of services and online safety of the users,” the Commission stated.

The IMEI-based tracking system builds on successful implementations in other regions, where similar technology has been used to recover lost and stolen devices.

The widespread presence of counterfeit devices in Nigeria has been attributed to various economic factors, including inflation, unemployment, and reduced purchasing power, which have led consumers to seek cheaper alternatives despite associated safety and security risks.

The risks include potential exposure to malware and security vulnerabilities, similar to recent incidents where banking trojans have targeted Android users through counterfeit applications.

Dr. Aminu Maida, executive vice chairman, NCC, has made the DMS initiative a key part of his broader regulatory agenda, which emphasises protecting telecom assets and improving network quality.

The system supports the Commission’s focus on transparency, accountability, and infrastructure protection in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, which serves over 200 million people.