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IMEI Database

The International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) is a 15-digit unique identifier for device on a mobile network.

The GSMA provides a collection of services previously known as the IMEI DataBase (IMEI DB). The services enable the mobile ecosystem to assign, understands, reports and checks the status of IMEIs that are in use across the world’s mobile networks.

Each IMEI consists of 3 key parts – Type Allocation Code (TAC), Serial Number and a Check Digit. The GSMA allocates official TAC numbers to manufacturers of 3GPP compliant devices under the TAC Allocation service. The device manufacturers submit allocation requests with information such as the manufacturer name, device models, and selected technical capabilities (e.g. frequency bands supported). Once validated by GSMA, TAC is allocated to the device manufacturers for production.

It is possible for organisations to access the TAC Allocation data via the GSMA Device Database. Ecosystem participants such as network operators use the information to determine types of devices on their networks, and what features the devices supports. This information is crucial for understanding network usage and management strategy such as sunsetting older generation networks and investing on new services such as eSIM support. Other organisations may also use the information for their operations such as device management, customer support and device trade-in .

Mobile Devices remain an attractive target for criminals around the world. Part of the service suite includes Device Registry. Using mobile devices’ IMEI numbers, the Device Registry database allows participants – including mobile operators, device manufacturers, device insurers and inventory managers – to report IMEIs of devices that have been reported stolen to help prevent their connection to mobile networks.

The Device Registry also supports what is known as a “block list”. The block list is a list of IMEIs that are associated with mobile devices that should be denied service on mobile networks because they have been reported as lost, stolen, faulty or otherwise unsuitable for use. This list is stored in the Device Registry and acts as a central system (also known as Central Equipment Identity Register) for network operators to share their individual block lists so that devices denied service (blocklisted) by one network will not work on other networks. The collaboration between of governments and law enforcement agencies and the network operator community continues in a number of markets where handset theft is perceived to be a problem. GSMA strongly encourages the use of the GSMA Device Registry as a platform to exchange stolen handset data. All GSMA operator members are welcome to connect to the system free of charge.

The GSMA also runs GSMA Device Check which allows recyclers, insurers, law enforcement, and other stakeholders to check if a device has been reported stolen before purchase.