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Brazil implements IMEI checks to identify stolen cell phones
Brazilian authorities are intensifying efforts to combat mobile phone theft and the trade of stolen goods through new verification measures and targeted operations.
The Ministry of Justice and Public Security has announced that security forces can now use the 15-digit IMEI code to check if a device has been reported stolen or lost during routine stops and checkpoints. This verification is conducted through the National Bank of Cell Phones with Restrictions. Officials clarified that the process is limited to checking the device's status and does not grant police access to personal content such as photos or files.
In Pernambuco, the Civil Police are participating in Operation Last Call, a national initiative aimed at recovering stolen devices. The operation has already involved sending nearly 2,000 WhatsApp notifications to individuals using lines associated with restricted IMEIs. Authorities are urging recipients of these messages to voluntarily present the devices at local police stations for inspection to avoid potential charges of receiving stolen property.
Entities
Ministry of Justice and Public Security · National Bank of Cell Phones with Restrictions · Pernambuco Civil Police · Wellington Lima e Silva
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Police consultations via the IMEI will not grant access to personal data such as photos, videos, or files.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Users notified about irregular devices are instructed to voluntarily present the equipment at a police station for verification. www.leiaja.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] In Pernambuco, authorities have sent nearly 2,000 WhatsApp notifications to users linked to devices with legal restrictions. www.leiaja.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Pernambuco Civil Police is participating in Operation Last Call, a national initiative to recover stolen or robbed mobile phones. www.leiaja.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Authorities will use the National Bank of Cell Phones with Restrictions to verify device status.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Ministry of Justice and Public Security announced a measure allowing security forces to check if a cell phone has a record of theft or robbery during routine stops using the IMEI.