Checking IMEI-codes via SMS possible in Azerbaijan
By Nigar Orujova
A new service that makes checking the IMEI-codes of mobile phones via SMS-request possible was launched in Azerbaijan.
The main purpose of checking IMEI-codes of mobile phones is to prevent the access of non-certified mobile phones to the Azerbaijani market.
Senior consultant of the Communication and Information Technologies Ministry's Regulation Department Zakir Gasimov said that a new way of testing involved sending the IMEI-code of the mobile phone to the phone number 1677.
The service is available to the subscribers of all three mobile operators in Azerbaijan.
The new way of checking IMEI-code allows the users to protect themselves against buying a product that does not meet the necessary quality standards, as later their operation in Azerbaijani mobile networks may not be possible. The service cost is 0.30 manat.
At present, the IMEI-codes database of mobile phones registered in Azerbaijan includes more than 13 million mobile phones. The system also includes other devices of GSM standard, such as navigators.
To date, the total number of mobile phones per 100 people is 18.65 units in Azerbaijan. This figure stands at 37.7 in Baku, 11.61 in the country's regions, and 7.21in rural areas.
The mobile phone penetration rate in the country is 110 percent.
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique number that identifies mobile phones and is used by a GSM network to identify valid devices, designed for preventing phone theft.
The IMEI code registration system involves a "black list", which includes the stolen mobile phones and devices with "cloned" IMEI-codes, and even the IMEI-codes of mobile phones stolen in other countries. Their use in Azerbaijani mobile providers' networks will be impossible.