The DoT has reportedly directed all operators to authenticate the handsets active on their respective network in an effort to curb the menace posed by fake IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identification) numbers of Chinese handsets.

DoT found that these cheap handsets have all zeros as IMEI or number at all as IMEI. In wake of recent terror attacks such handsets with fake IMEI pose a security challenge for the agencies monitoring the call details. DoT wants calls from such handsets to be rejected by the operators.

DoT has asked the operators to set up Equipment Identity Register (EIR) that can be used for authentication and security purposes.

DoT has now given the operators 2 months time to complete the process.