The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has urged Nigerians to verify their mobile phones before purchasing them, particularly second-hand devices, following the introduction of a service designed to help identify counterfeit and non-compliant communications equipment.
The commission said consumers can access the Device Checker service by dialling *315# and following the instructions to verify their devices.
Akelicious reports that the initiative is aimed at protecting phone buyers from purchasing devices that may not meet the requirements for operation on Nigerian telecommunications networks.
The NCC also provided an online verification option through its official Device Checker portal at www.ncc.gov.ng/devicechecker.
The commission’s initiative is expected to give consumers an additional means of checking their devices before completing purchases, especially when buying from informal markets and individual sellers.
With second-hand phones widely available in the market, the verification service could help buyers make more informed decisions and reduce the risks associated with purchasing counterfeit or non-compliant devices.
Consumers are therefore advised to make device verification part of their purchasing process rather than relying solely on a seller’s assurances about a phone’s authenticity or suitability for use on Nigerian mobile networks.
The NCC’s move underscores the importance of consumer awareness and compliance in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, as buyers are encouraged to take precautionary steps before spending money on mobile devices.
