The introduction of national IMEI registration systems is always a matter of discussion. If you immediately apply a restrictive lock, you will get a massive negative: people will be left without communication, there will be an influx of complaints and a high burden on operators and the regulator.
At the start of CEIR, the question inevitably arises: how to launch it without unnecessary stress and ensure a smooth transition for millions of subscribers?
Why is it always a discussion?
Any innovation related to mobile devices is perceived sensitively.
Users do not want to lose access to their phone. They worry about locks and additional bureaucracy.
For operators, the difficulties are also obvious: the surge in support requests, the need to explain the rules, and the risks of a negative reaction from subscribers.
IMEI registration differs in all countries:
Turkey uses one of the most expensive registrations.
Azerbaijan uses a paid but moderate model.
Kazakhstan introduced a benefit and an «amnesty» period to reduce social tension.
There is no universal solution, so there is almost always a discussion about the cost and conditions of registration.
«Soft launch»: the Uzbekistan case
Before the introduction of CEIR, the grey market in Uzbekistan exceeded 98%. A national CEIR and four EIR nodes were deployed as part of the project. The system was integrated with government services and operator infrastructure.
The state has chosen the smoothest possible launch model: several months of IMEI registration without any fee. At this stage, it was possible to legalize any existing device: without queues, without requirements, without pressure on users.
This step provided several benefits at once:
Citizens were able to safely register their devices.
Operators have avoided a critical increase in complaints and negativity.
The regulator was able to switch to a new model without massive blockages.
The system was adopted by the market with almost no resistance.
This case has shown that a properly organized «amnesty» reduces social tension to almost zero and makes the launch of CEIR manageable and predictable.
What is the point of paid registration?
After the grace period in Uzbekistan ended, registration became paid for importers of legal equipment, manufacturers, and citizens importing devices for personal use.
Important: this is not a penalty mechanism but a way to finance CEIR’s work — infrastructure maintenance, filtering illegal devices, reducing fraud, and ensuring user safety.
Conclusion
A «soft» launch reduces the risk of conflicts when starting CEIR and increases the chances of successful system operation. For countries where the implementation of CEIR is still being discussed, the experience of those markets that have chosen a smooth start sets a clear guideline. The process can indeed be made easier, calmer and safer for all participants in the process.
SС.Soft has a vast experience in implementing CEIR solutions in various countries. We continue to share our expertise, as well as participate in a dialogue on creating a secure and sustainable digital environment.
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