BTRC Warns Mobile Users Against Misinformation

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has issued a formal warning to mobile phone users regarding circulating misinformation about the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) system. False claims concerning the system’s server location and the IP addresses it uses have been circulating widely on social media and online platforms. The commission urged citizens not to be misled by such rumours.

In a statement released on their verified Facebook page on Tuesday, 13 January, BTRC clarified that the NEIR system was launched on 1 January 2026 in accordance with government directives. The system’s primary objectives are to:

Prevent the illegal importation of mobile handsets

Deter stolen handset circulation

Counter criminal activity facilitated by illegal devices

Ensure the protection of government revenue

The statement emphasised that all NEIR data is securely hosted within Bangladesh. To safeguard customer information, BTRC has deployed its own hardware infrastructure and designed the system in compliance with national data protection regulations.

Additionally, the IP addresses used by NEIR are allocated by APNIC to a Bangladeshi entity, ensuring that no system traffic or data is routed outside the country. All NEIR system requests are processed domestically, and a detailed review of the IP routing has confirmed that the system remains entirely within Bangladesh, maintaining maximum security and integrity.

BTRC strongly requested that the public disregard any misinformation or misleading narratives regarding the NEIR system and rely solely on official communication from the commission.

Key NEIR System Information:

The BTRC reaffirmed its commitment to user data protection, system security, and regulatory compliance, stressing that NEIR operations are fully domestic and secure. Mobile users are advised to verify information only from official BTRC sources to avoid confusion or panic.