The government of Kenya, through the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), on November 5, 2024, issued fresh directives requiring all importers of mobile devices and travellers entering the country to declare IMEI numbers as part of the country’s broader efforts to ensure tax compliance and curb illegal mobile trade.
KRA in the notice explained that this new directive is part of the government’s ongoing initiatives to enforce the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA, 2004).
Further, the revenue authority said that the directive aligns with the Communications Authority of Kenya’s (CA) public notice aimed at enhancing the integrity of mobile device imports and preventing smuggling or the circulation of counterfeit products.
KRA in the statement outlined specific requirements for various categories of people, including importers, travellers, and local manufacturers/assemblers of mobile devices.
“All importers of mobile devices will be required to submit detailed import entries for all mobile devices with accurate quantities, proper model descriptions/specifications, and their respective IMEI numbers in the customs system,” the statement reads.
According to Android Authority, T Mobile and Samsung.com an IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a unique identifier assigned to mobile phones and other cellular devices, such as tablets or smartwatches, that connect to cellular networks.
It is a 15-digit number that serves as the device’s fingerprint and helps identify the device on a network.
Each mobile device has a distinct IMEI number, making it possible to differentiate one phone from another, even if they are the same make and model.
The IMEI number is generally used by network providers to identify and track devices.
Structure of an IMEI Number
The 15 digits of an IMEI number can be broken down into three sections which include TAC (Type Approval Code), Serial Number and Check Digit.
TAC comprises the first 6 digits which identify the brand and model of the device while the Serial Number comprises of Digits 7 to 14 which represent a unique serial number for the device.
The check digit on the other hand is the last digit used for error detection to ensure the IMEI number is valid.
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The purpose of IMEI numbers includes tracking stolen devices in which if a phone is lost or stolen, the number can be used to block the device from accessing the network, preventing it from being used.
This is why it is often referred to as the “serial number” for phones.
Also, carriers and network providers use the IMEI number for network security to authenticate the device on their network. This helps ensure that only authorized devices can connect.
Manufacturers and service providers on the other hand use the IMEI number to check the warranty status, device model, and other support information when servicing the device.
Governments and regulators may use IMEI numbers to monitor and control the import, sale, and use of mobile phones within their countries. In some cases, this is used to fight counterfeit devices or ensure compliance with tax and customs regulations as in the case of KRA.
How to find the number on your phone
Dialling a Code: On most smartphones, you can quickly find the IMEI number by dialling *#06# on the phone’s dialer. The IMEI number will appear on the screen.
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In settings: For most devices, you can also find the IMEI under Settings > About Phone > Status or a similar option.
On the device box: The International Mobile Equipment Identity number is often printed on the box the phone came in.
On the device Itself: Some phones have the number printed on the back of the device or underneath the battery (for phones with removable batteries).
Technically, IMEI numbers can be altered (usually illegally) using special software or tools. However, this is highly illegal in most countries and could result in severe penalties.
Carriers and manufacturers can also detect, and block altered IMEI numbers, making it a risky and unethical practice.
Unlike a SIM card (which is used to connect to the mobile network and can be swapped between devices), the IMEI number is tied to the device itself and cannot be changed or transferred.
In addition, the difference between an IMEI and a MAC (Media Access Control) address is that the former is used for mobile network connectivity, while the latter is used to identify devices on a Wi-Fi network or Bluetooth.
KRA notice to importers, travellers and local manufacturers
The Kenya Revenue Authority in the notice ordered that importers of mobile devices will be required to submit detailed import entries, including accurate quantities, model descriptions, specifications, and the IMEI numbers of all devices being imported into Kenya.
Travellers entering the country on their part will need to declare the IMEI numbers of their mobile devices intended for use during their stay in Kenya, filling out the necessary details on the F88 passenger declaration form at the port of entry.
Also, local device assemblers and manufacturers will be required to register on the Customs portal and submit a report on all devices assembled for the local market, along with their respective IMEI numbers.
The new requirements are set to be enforced from January 1, 2025, and KRA has indicated that further guidelines on how to capture and report IMEI details will be shared with the public in due course.
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