Komdigi Affirms Blocking IMEI Is Voluntary, Not An Obligation For Mobile Users

Director General of Digital Infrastructure Komdigi Wayan Toni (Rana Maheswari Ummairah/VOI).

JAKARTA - The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) emphasized that the blocking of IMEI was not carried out as a restriction. This regulation, which is being studied, will be a form of additional protection.

Director General of Digital Infrastructure Komdigi, Wayan Toni, emphasized that Komdigi will not require every cellphone to have ownership signs such as a motorcycle BPKB.

IMEI blocking is actually carried out to avoid misuse of identity when the cellphone is lost or stolen.

IMEI, abbreviation to the International Mobile Equipment Identity, functions as the official identity of the device that is already registered in the Government system. With this system, phones that are used illegally for theft or other crimes can be blocked.

This blocking will eliminate the economic value of the cellphone for criminals. Wayan believes that the IMEI blocking system will provide a sense of security and comfort for consumers who buy devices legally.

In addition, IMEI regulations are also of great benefit to prevent the circulation of illegal mobile phones in the market. This also protects consumers from fraud and ensures quality guarantees and official guarantees.

"With IMEI, people can be calmer. If the cellphone is lost or stolen, the device can be reported and blocked. If it is found again, it can be reactivated. So, this is not a new burden, but additional protection for the community," said Wayan, quoted on Saturday, October 4, 2025.

Wayan reminded again that the IMEI blocking initiative is still in the assessment stage. So far, the initiative has not been officially discussed at the Komdigi leadership level.