Nigerian Communications Commission launches device verification system

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has launched the Device Checker system to allow users to verify if mobile phones and other telecommunications equipment meet national technical standards. Part of a strengthened Type Approval Compliance framework, the initiative enables consumers to check the status of smartphones, feature phones, tablets, modems, and POS terminals via the USSD code *315# or an official web portal.

To address public concerns regarding state surveillance, the NCC clarified that the system does not access private personal data. The technology is designed to read only hardware identification metadata, specifically the 15-digit International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers, to cross-reference devices against the official registry. The regulator stated that the framework cannot monitor personal messages, view photographs, access contacts, or examine financial transactions.