October 8, 2025 | 09:13 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Minister of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) Meutya Hafid has denied rumors that discussions about International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) blocking and re-registration services will create a regulation similar to vehicle registration.
"There is no regulation that the Ministry of Communication and Digital will issue regarding registration similar to the BPKB (Agency for Motor Vehicle Documentation and Information); that is not true," Meutya firmly stated when speaking in Ambon, Maluku, on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, as reported by Antara.
Meutya issued this clarification to counter widespread public controversy sparked by rumors comparing the IMEI management mechanism to the process of mandatory vehicle licensing.
Policy Goal: Protection, Not Obligation
She explained that the core purpose of this new policy is to enhance public protection, particularly in cases where mobile phones are lost or stolen. Meutya stressed that this process involves no additional costs or new mandatory obligations for the public.
"For members of the public who have lost their phones, they are allowed to block their own IMEI to secure their personal data," she said. "Whether they want to transfer ownership is entirely their right as the owner of the phone."
She further noted that while there are no extra costs, the regulation only permits actions such as blocking a phone's IMEI due to loss, theft, or other personal interests. Therefore, she urged the public not to worry about the incorrect information currently circulating.
Strengthening the IMEI System
The Ministry of Communication and Digital is currently drafting technical regulations for IMEI blocking and re-registration services, with the aim of strengthening data protection and preventing the misuse of telecommunication devices in Indonesia. The IMEI serves as the official device identity registered within the government system.
This system is crucial because phones involved in criminal activities can be blocked, thereby stripping them of any economic value for criminals. Conversely, consumers who purchase officially or legally registered devices gain a greater sense of security.
The IMEI system is also vital for preventing the circulation of illegal phones, protecting consumers from fraud, ensuring official quality and warranty, and assisting authorities in reducing phone theft crimes.
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