NCC Urges Nigerians to Check Phones for Counterfeit and Cloned Devices Before Purchase

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has urged consumers to verify mobile devices before buying them, warning that counterfeit, cloned and unauthorised phones could pose challenges to Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

The commission said its Device Checker Platform was developed to improve compliance with technical standards, protect consumers and safeguard the integrity of devices connected to Nigerian communication networks.

Speaking at a news conference at the NCC’s zonal office on Thursday, the commission’s Zonal Controller said the initiative was designed to tackle the circulation of devices that do not meet regulatory requirements.

“As Nigeria’s digital economy continues to expand, it is important that devices connected to our networks comply with established technical and regulatory standards,” the Controller said.

The official disclosed that the NCC had made progress through licensing, regularisation and awareness campaigns aimed at bringing device dealers and other industry participants into compliance. In Kano State, the commission had streamlined its licensing and regularisation process, enabling more dealers to obtain the required licences.

The NCC also said it had engaged importers and other stakeholders in Lagos and other parts of the country to raise awareness about Type Approval requirements and obligations under the Device Checker framework.

To make compliance easier, the commission developed a Device Checker application that allows authorised stakeholders to scan devices’ International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers and upload relevant information directly to the platform. Online resources have also been made available to guide consumers and industry participants through the verification process.

Consumers can check their devices through the NCC’s Device Checker portal by entering the relevant IMEI number. Manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers can also consult the Type Approval and Device Verification Guide on the commission’s website to understand their regulatory obligations.

The Zonal Controller stressed that the platform was not designed to monitor users’ private activities, addressing potential concerns about personal data and privacy.

“I would also like to emphasise that the Device Checker Platform is not a surveillance tool. It does not access personal data, messages, photographs, contacts, financial information, or any other private content stored on a device,” the Controller said.

“Its purpose is limited to device identification and regulatory compliance verification,” the official added.

The NCC advised consumers to buy from reputable and licensed dealers and verify device status before completing purchases. It also urged manufacturers, importers, distributors and dealers to study the relevant guidelines and comply with the commission’s requirements. Consumers seeking enquiries, assistance or making complaints were directed to the NCC’s toll-free 315 consumer line.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to consumer protection, fair competition and network integrity, saying the platform formed part of efforts to build a more trusted communications ecosystem in Nigeria.