Is Your Phone Safe? Illegal Mobile Phones Blocked From December 16
From December 16, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission will start blocking all unregistered and illegal mobile phones from local networks. The step is meant to stop smartphone smuggling and protect user data through the National Equipment Identity Register system. If your phone is not registered or was bought unofficially, it may soon lose network access permanently. To stay connected, you should check and verify your phone’s IMEI number as soon as possible. This move is a big effort toward building a safer and more transparent mobile system in Bangladesh.
Strict Action Against Illegal Mobile Phones
We are entering a key stage in Bangladesh’s digital journey. The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has announced that all illegal and non-registered handsets will be blocked starting on Victory Day, December 16. This move is more than just an upgrade; it shows a strong commitment to ensuring telecom safety and digital trust. The new National Equipment Identity Register system will play a central role in making this change happen.
The Crucial Role of the NEIR System
Why this sudden move? It’s important to understand what’s really going on. According to BTRC’s Special Assistant Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, about 73% of digital fraud in Bangladesh happens through unregistered phones and SIM cards. The country also loses nearly Tk 500 crore in revenue each year because of smuggled phones. To tackle this, NEIR acts as a security shield. It connects each phone’s IMEI number with the user’s NID and active SIM. Only verified phones that meet approved standards will be allowed to use the network. This step also helps promote local mobile manufacturing.
How to Verify Your Device?
If you’re a phone user, your first step should be to check if your device is legal and registered.
Check the New Handsets Before Purchase
Before buying a new phone, make sure it’s officially approved. Always keep your purchase receipt safe. Just follow a few simple steps to check instantly.
- Go to your phone’s message app.
- Type: KYD <space> 15-digit IMEI number. (Example: KYD 123456789012345).
- Send a message to 16002.
You will get an SMS confirming whether your phone is registered. If it’s valid, it will register automatically once you insert a SIM card.
Status of Your Currently Used Handsets
If you already use a phone, don’t worry. All active mobile phones in Bangladesh will be automatically registered by December 16. You don’t need to register again. To check your phone’s registration status, simply dial *16161# from your device.
Registering Imported or Gifted Handsets (Special Registration)
Mobile phones brought legally from abroad or received as gifts will stay active at first. Users must complete an online registration within 30 days after receiving an SMS instruction.
The entire process is managed through the BTRC's portal: neir.btrc.gov.bd.
- Visit the NEIR portal and create your personal account.
- Access the ‘Special Registration’ section.
- Enter the phone’s IMEI number.
- Upload scanned copies of the required documents (passport with visa/immigration stamp, purchase receipt, etc.) and submit.
If the device is valid, it will be registered automatically. If not, it will be disconnected after a notification.
What About Selling or Transferring Your Phone?
You should think about your phone’s future resale value and security. From December 16, you will need to de-register your handset before selling or transferring it. To do this, just provide the last four digits of your National ID. You can complete this important step through the NEIR Citizen Portal or by dialing the USSD code *16161#.
Securing a Stolen or Lost Device
One big advantage is better protection against theft. If your phone is lost or stolen, you can lock it right away. You can do this through the Citizen Portal or by calling 121 for help from your mobile operator’s customer care. The NEIR system gives you real-time control over your phone.
For NEIR to work well, everyone needs to cooperate and follow the rules. By taking these steps, we can help create a safer and more transparent digital environment in Bangladesh. For more help, you can call the BTRC helpdesk at 100.
Final Thoughts
Bangladesh is stepping up mobile security as unregistered mobile phones will be blocked from December 16, 2025. The NEIR system checks each device to make sure it is verified, protecting users from fraud and supporting the country’s telecom rules. Whether you are buying a new phone, using your current one, or registering an imported device, checking your IMEI is now very important. This move helps keep personal data safe and makes the country’s digital network stronger. By following these steps, users can stay connected, secure their phones, and help create a safer and more transparent mobile system across Bangladesh.
