Russia Implements Nationwide IMEI Registry to Combat Mobile Fraud

• June 28, 2026

The Russian government has introduced new legislation mandating the creation of a centralized database containing the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of all smartphones owned by residents. This move aims to strengthen protections against cybercriminal activity targeting mobile users.

New Legal Framework to Protect Mobile Device Users

Signed into law by President Vladimir Putin on Friday, the statute—referred to as “Anti-Fraud 2.0″—was previously approved by the State Duma. It introduces comprehensive measures designed to safeguard both the users of mobile devices and their financial resources from a growing wave of cyber fraud schemes.

The legislation requires that all smartphones registered within Russia be cataloged by their unique IMEI values, creating a government-managed repository that can be used to identify devices and monitor potential fraudulent activity. This database is expected to serve as an important tool in preventing the misuse and unauthorized distribution of mobile phones.

IMEI numbers, which serve as unique identifiers for mobile devices, will be collected and stored to help authorities track compromised or stolen devices more efficiently. The centralized system is positioned as part of a broader effort to tighten cybersecurity protections within the country’s mobile ecosystem.

While detailed implementation procedures and operational controls for the database have yet to be fully disclosed, the law represents a significant regulatory step in the battle against digital crime affecting mobile users. By consolidating device identification information, Russian officials aim to provide an additional layer of defense against scammers targeting smartphones.

The creation of an IMEI registry aligns with growing global trends where governments seek to leverage technology and data to combat fraud in telecommunications. However, the specific mechanisms by which the database will interact with mobile service providers, manufacturers, and law enforcement agencies remain to be clarified as the new framework is rolled out.

This initiative follows increasing concerns over cyber threats exploiting mobile devices as vectors for financial fraud and unauthorized access. Establishing a formalized repository for IMEI numbers marks an effort to improve transparency and responsiveness within Russia’s mobile sector to tackle these challenges.

As the law takes effect, mobile device users in Russia may experience changes in how their devices are registered and monitored. Privacy considerations and the scope of data sharing will likely be key points of discussion among experts and stakeholders as the government implements the new rules aimed at protecting consumers.

Russia enacts new law establishing a centralized IMEI database for all smartphones to enhance user protection against cyber fraud.