The NEIR system is going to be launched from December 16 to prevent the use of unregistered mobile phones and ensure security in the telecommunications sector. If it is launched, the use of unregistered, stolen or unauthorized imported mobile phones will be completely stopped on the country’s mobile network. The government has made such an announcement. After hearing this news, many are quite worried. Are you wondering, will my mobile phone also be stopped? Or is the mobile phone set in your hand registered? Know some things, it will put an end to your worries.
What is NEIR
The National Equipment Identity Register or NEIR is a central database where the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) numbers of all legal mobile phones in the country will be stored. Each set’s own IMEI number is its ‘digital identity card’. If this number is not registered in the government-approved database, then it will not be able to connect to any mobile phone operator’s network.
According to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), only legitimate mobile phones will be connected to the network through the NEIR system. As a result, stolen or illegally imported mobile phones will no longer be usable.
What types of phones will be shut down
According to BTRC, a large number of unregistered mobile phones are still being used in the country. Many of them are personally brought from abroad, some are gifts, and some are fake brands or clone models. Once NEIR is implemented, these unregistered mobile phones will gradually be disconnected from the network. That is, even if it is active, it will not be possible to make calls or use the internet. However, there is no need to panic. Those who have legally purchased a mobile phone; but have not registered it yet, can register it until December 16. BTRC will soon announce the detailed process in this regard.
To know whether your mobile phone is registered or not, you need to write the IMEI number (which can be found by dialing *# 06#) and send an SMS to 16002, the format will be KYD <space> IMEI number.
The answer will tell you whether your phone is legal, registered or unregistered.
Why is this system needed
Along with imports, the journey of mobile phone production in Bangladesh began in 2017. Currently, about 17 factories, both domestic and foreign, are producing mobile phones in the country. 60 percent of the market is still occupied by illegal mobile phones. Due to this, Bangladesh is losing about 2,000 crore taka in revenue. On the other hand, thousands of phones are stolen in Bangladesh every year. Most of them are resold or come to the market as cloned models. This illegal market creates financial losses as well as security risks.
Once NEIR is launched, it will be easier to track stolen mobile phones. At the same time, the violence of illegal importers will be greatly reduced.
Consumer impact on business
Mobile phone sellers believe that although there will be some confusion at the beginning, it will restore transparency and trust in the market in the long run. It will give consumers the assurance that the mobile phone they are buying is genuine and safe.
Now the solution
BTRC has said that after December 16, no unregistered mobile phones will work on the network. Therefore, those who are using a mobile phone brought from abroad, received as a gift or an old one, should quickly check the IMEI number of their mobile phone and register it if necessary.
