Are you thinking about buying a new mobile phone by the end of 2025? Before you do, there is a critical update you need to know. After years of delay, the government of Bangladesh has made a final decision. The BTRC gave notice to ban unofficial mobile devices starting from a significant date. This move was first attempted in 2016 and later in 2021, but could not be implemented due to public pressure. But this time, it’s finally happening. The main goal is to control digital crimes and reduce theft across the country.
The BTRC is set to launch the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) system to manage this process. They have announced that 16th December 2025 is the effective date to block unauthorised phones in Bangladesh. Any unofficial handset purchased after this day will no longer work. Read on to understand what this means for you and how to ensure your device is compliant.
Table of Contents
- What is NEIR?
- Clear Message From The BTRC
- How The Deactivation Will Take Place
- Buying Unauthorized Phones Can Lead To Trouble
- How To Check if Your Phone is Official or Not
- Register Phones Purchased From Abroad or Gifted in NEIR
- Trust Official Phones Only From Star Tech
What is NEIR?
The National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) is a system introduced by BTRC, as previously mentioned. The authority initiated the system to identify and manage all mobile devices used in Bangladesh. It helps verify IMEI numbers, block illegal or stolen phones, and ensure only registered devices can access local networks. Obviously, this creates a safer and more secure telecom environment for users.
Clear Message From The BTRC
The BTRC issued a strong message a few days ago to users and traders in Bangladesh. They emphasize that every single mobile phone will be brought under NEIR through this new registration system. This step aims to dismantle the grey handset market, which has thrived for years. From 16th December 2025, new handset registration will be mandatory, ensuring only legitimate devices can access the network in Bangladesh. This initiative reinforces the government’s commitment to a secure and regulated telecom environment.
How The Deactivation Will Take Place
The latest unofficial phone ban update confirms that from the network block date, unofficial phones will no longer connect to local networks. The NEIR mobile IMEI registration system will play a key role in enforcing this rule by verifying all devices. Phones imported without paying duties or those with fake IMEI numbers will be blocked, ensuring only legitimate devices can operate. This move is a significant step toward regulating the telecom market.
By implementing this system, the government aims to eliminate the widespread use of illegal devices, which have long disrupted the market and caused revenue losses. The BTRC’s strict measures will not only protect users from potential risks but also promote a fair environment for legally imported and registered handsets, supporting local manufacturers and ensuring market stability.
Buying Unauthorized Phones Can Lead To Trouble
Buying unofficial mobile phones may seem like a cost-saving option, but the risks far outweigh the benefits. With the BTRC’s new regulations, these devices face serious limitations and security concerns. Phones purchased before December 16 this year will not be blocked by BTRC, though unofficial phone users are still at a big risk and should buy an authorized mobile phone shortly.
Risk of Network Blockage By BTRC
Unauthorized phones are at high risk of being blocked by the BTRC’s IMEI registration system. This means users may lose access to networks entirely, leaving them disconnected. While phones purchased before December 16 are exempt, the risk remains for those using unregistered devices.
Cannot Be Blocked If Stolen
Unlike official devices, unauthorized phones lack the possibility of being rescued if stolen. Registered phones can be instantly blocked using their IMEI numbers, reducing the risk of misuse. This feature is crucial in preventing crimes.
Vulnerable To Mobile Scams
Unauthorized phones are more vulnerable to cyber threats, including SIM-related scams and mobile financial service (MFS) fraud. With 73% of digital frauds done using illegal mobile devices, owning an unregistered phone increases your chances of becoming a victim. This feature is crucial in preventing crimes like WhatsApp number hacking and bKash fraud, which are the most common cyber crimes in Bangladesh. This often involves stolen or unregistered devices. Official phones provide better security features to shield users from such risks.
Ownership Transferring Opportunity
Unauthorized phones will not allow ownership transfer, as no chance of selling or gifting a device. Hence, unregistered phones lack this feature, making it harder to prove ownership. This limitation can also complicate legal matters if the phone is involved in any disputes or crimes.
Risk of Refurbished or Fake Mobile Phone
The grey market is flooded with refurbished or fake products, often sold as new. These devices may have hidden defects or outdated components, leading to poor performance. Official phones from trusted brands eliminate this risk, offering genuine quality and reliability.
Network Operator & App Compatibility
Unauthorized phones often face compatibility issues with network operators and apps. Features like 4G, NFC, or advanced app functionalities may not work properly, affecting the user experience. On the flip side, official devices ensure full compatibility, providing a hassle-free experience for users.
No Official Warranty Support
Unauthorized phones come without an official warranty, leaving users to bear the cost of repairs. In contrast, official devices offer warranty coverage, ensuring peace of mind and long-term value. This is especially important for high-end models that may require costly repairs.
Lower Resale Value
Unregistered phones have a significantly lower resale value compared to official devices. Buyers are less likely to trust unauthorized phones due to the risks involved. Investing in an official phone ensures better resale opportunities and long-term financial benefits.
How To Check if Your Phone is Official or Not
Unregistered phones have a significantly lower resale value compared to official devices. Buyers are less likely to trust unauthorized phones due to the risks involved. Investing in an official phone ensures better resale opportunities and long-term financial benefits.
To check whether your phone is official, verify IMEI on the BTRC portal and confirm its authenticity by sending an SMS. Also, proper checking of the warranty card, labels, and firmware updates can keep you on the safe side. IMEI checks ensure criminal activities can be identified; the new rule for mobile phones in Bangladesh means operators will block illegal phones. So, checking whether the mobile phone is valid or illegal is a must from now on.
Check The Authenticity of a Phone in Simple 3 steps:
- Step 1: Go to the message option on any other mobile phone.
- Step 2: Type “KYD<space> 15-digit IMEI number, e.g., KYD 123456789012345.
- Step 3: Send the message to 16002.
Note that phones purchased before December 16 this year will not be blocked by BTRC.
Register Phones Purchased From Abroad or Gifted in NEIR
If you bought a device outside Bangladesh or received it as a gift, you can register yourself by following the 3 steps below. You can also take help to register from the mobile network operator's customer care in Bangladesh. This process helps restrict illegal imports and stop unauthorized phone network access in Bangladesh.
According to the BTRC, over 60 percent of mobile phones are smuggled into Bangladesh without tax, often including phones officially not available in Bangladesh. Follow the simple 3-step process for doing it by yourself.
- Step 1: Visit neir.btrc.gov.bd portal to register your personal account.
- Step 2: Go to the “Special Registration” section and provide the IMEI number (the unique 15-digit code for verification) of your mobile phone.
- Step 3: Upload reference documents (photo/scan copy passport, VISA, immigration, purchase receipt, etc.), then click the submit button.
The handset will be automatically registered if it is legal. If not, the customer will receive a notification and will be disconnected from the network. Also, this phone registration can be done via the customer care center of your telecom operator.
The Phone Must Be Legally Purchased From The Country Where You Bought It or Gifted From.
Trust Official Phones Only From Star Tech
Bangladesh is finally set to block all unregistered handsets, marking a big move in the mobile market. The moment BTRC gave notice to deactivate unregistered handsets, it was a clear warning for everyone not to buy unauthorized devices anymore.
Star Tech, the #1 mobile shop in Bangladesh, offers a wide range of official phones from popular brands. Star Tech has partnered with leading mobile brands like Samsung, Google, Vivo, Oppo, Honor, TCL, and ZTE to deliver official mobile phones in BD. We are dedicated to offering premium flagship smartphones, the latest iPhone models for tech enthusiasts, as well as affordable options for budget-conscious phone users.
While flagship phone seekers often buy mobile phone models not available in BD, which are illegally imported, they can avoid that risk by trusting Star Tech. To avoid these downsides, choose official smartphones from renowned brands like Samsung, Redmi, OnePlus, Oppo, and Realme. Trusted online shops like Star Tech offer these devices at the lowest prices, ensuring quality, security, and peace of mind.
If you are planning to buy a new device, always choose officially approved ones. Mobile phones sold by Star Tech comply with the new phone buying rules by BTRC in Bangladesh. You can verify through the IMEI registration check code and buy without any worry. At Star Tech, we always promote official products at the best price, and we welcome this great initiative from the Bangladesh government. Hopefully, this will play an effective role in crime prevention, ensuring safe mobile usage for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I check if my mobile phone is valid or illegal in Bangladesh?
You can check if your phone is valid or illegal by verifying its IMEI number. Simply type “KYD<space> 15-digit IMEI number from and send it to 16002. Within some time, you will get a reply SMS containing your mobile phone’s registration details.
Will my old phone, which I am using now, be blocked by BTRC?
No, phones purchased before December 16 this year (2025) will not be blocked by BTRC. But still using some unregistered devices carries the risk of losing network access later.
What will happen to the unofficial phones after December 16?
From December 16, 2025, unofficial phones will no longer connect to any local mobile networks in Bangladesh, as BTRC will deactivate all unregistered handsets through the NEIR system.
What should I do before buying a new phone from a retailer or online shop?
Before buying, verify the IMEI number, check warranty details, and make sure the phone is officially approved by BTRC. Always buy from trusted retailers like Star Tech to ensure authenticity and compliance.
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