In response to rising concerns about theft and loss of mobile devices, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) of the United Arab Emirates has introduced a new initiative to protect consumers. Once a theft or loss is reported, the service provider will confirm details and seek customer approval to initiate a blocking process for the device.
The device’s International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) will be added to a blacklist database, effectively cutting off access to any networks via the device within 24 hours of the report. Unblocking the device once found will also take 24 hours, the authority added.
The TRA has also urged residents to take all available measures to safeguard data and devices. This includes steps such as activating two-step verification, enabling biometric access features, and utilizing device-tracking if available. Eng. Saif Bin Ghelaita, Director of Technology Development Affairs at TDRA, emphasized the need for additional measures to ensure the security and privacy of customer information.
When making a report, the TRA clarified that residents must provide specific and precise information including personal details, time and location of loss or theft, and device specifications. As electronic services continue to grow in both government and the private sector, it is essential to implement additional measures to protect consumers’ security and privacy.
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