NCC Launches Device Checker Platform to Combat Fake Phones, Track Stolen Devices

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a Device Checker Platform to combat counterfeit, cloned and unauthorised communication devices in Nigeria, while providing a system for verifying devices and supporting efforts to recover stolen phones.

The initiative is also designed to protect consumers, strengthen regulatory compliance and ensure that communication devices circulating in the Nigerian market meet established technical standards.

The Zonal Controller of the Commission, Engineer Maigana Gidado, disclosed this at a news conference held at the NCC Zonal Office in Kano.

Gidado explained that the platform would enable consumers and authorised stakeholders to verify the Type Approval status of SIM-enabled devices before purchase, helping to prevent the circulation of non-compliant products.

He added that the initiative would promote accountability across the telecommunications device supply chain and empower consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.

According to him, the Commission has also streamlined its licensing and regularisation processes, enabling a significant number of device dealers in Kano State to obtain the necessary licences to operate.

The NCC has further conducted sensitisation engagements with importers and other industry stakeholders in Lagos and other parts of the country to raise awareness of Type Approval requirements and their obligations under the new framework.

Gidado said the Commission had developed a user-friendly application that allows authorised stakeholders to scan the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of devices and upload relevant information directly to the platform.

He urged consumers to verify their devices before purchase by visiting the Commission’s Device Checker portal at www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker and entering the device’s IMEI number.

Manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers were also advised to consult the Type Approval and Device Verification Guide at www.ncc.gov.ng/DeviceCheckerGuide to familiarise themselves with the applicable regulatory requirements.

Platform Not Designed for Surveillance — NCC

Addressing concerns about privacy, Gidado clarified that the Device Checker Platform was not a surveillance tool and did not access users’ personal data or private content stored on their devices.

He said the platform could not access users’ messages, photographs, contacts, financial information or other personal information.

“The purpose is limited to device identification and regulatory compliance verification,” he said.

The Commission encouraged consumers to patronise reputable and licensed dealers, verify devices before purchase and use its online resources to avoid buying counterfeit or non-compliant communication devices.

It also urged manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers to comply with Type Approval requirements to ensure that devices sold in Nigeria meet the prescribed technical standards.

Consumers seeking assistance or wishing to lodge complaints were advised to contact the Commission’s toll-free consumer line on 315.

The NCC reaffirmed its commitment to consumer protection, fair competition, network integrity and the development of a trusted telecommunications ecosystem in Nigeria.