Mozambique's National Communications Institute (INCM), the country's telecoms regulator, has launched a public International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) database, enabling consumers and other sector participants to verify the authenticity and registration status of mobile devices before purchase.
The platform provides access to the IMEI number database for mobile phones and tablets through INCM's official website. The service is available to consumers, manufacturers, importers, retailers, telecommunications operators, and other entities operating in the communications sector.
According to INCM, the initiative is designed to strengthen consumer protection by allowing users to confirm whether a device is genuine and properly registered prior to completing a purchase. The measure is intended to improve transaction security in the domestic mobile equipment market.
The regulator stated that the tool is also expected to help reduce the circulation of counterfeit or illegally imported mobile devices in Mozambique, enabling consumers to verify equipment authenticity in advance.
The database is populated with official records from the GSM Association (GSMA), the international body responsible for managing the global IMEI registry. Each IMEI corresponds to a unique identifier assigned to a mobile device, allowing its authenticity to be confirmed at an international level.
INCM clarified that when the information returned by the platform matches the device being queried, the IMEI is associated with a genuine device registered with the GSMA. Where no match is found, the equipment may be counterfeit or have been incorrectly registered.
The regulator is encouraging consumers to use the tool as a preventive measure before acquiring mobile devices. INCM said the service will contribute to a more transparent, competitive, and secure market.
INCM added that the initiative reinforces the institution's commitment to consumer protection and to ensuring that Information and Communication Technology products and services available in Mozambique meet recognised standards of quality, safety, and reliability.
Source: Diário Económico
Original article: https://www.diarioeconomico.co.mz/?p=526928
