Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has issued an urgent alert to the public, warning against the use of mobile phones that have not been officially cleared for the local market.
In a notice published on it’s official X account, the telecommunications regulator raised alarm over a surge in “non-type-approved” devices.
These gadgets, which have bypassed mandatory safety checks, are reportedly flooding electronic shops across the country, potentially endangering millions of users.
The prohibited brands include: Tinsik, Realfone, F+, Fonrox, Mez, Nemojo, Vue, Bundy, Qqmee, U-Fm, Chatada, Superx and Momofly.
Also flagged are: Wr (also referred to as WT), X.Oda (also known as Xoda), Smba, Q-Seven, Ugbad, Ft, Raeno ant Switch.
Health and safety concerns
The regulator has strictly prohibited vendors from selling these specific brands and cautioned the public that using them poses significant health risks and may interfere with communication networks.
The Authority mandates that every mobile device sold and used in Kenya must undergo a rigorous “Type A” approval process.
This procedure is designed to ensure that handsets meet both national and international standards regarding health, safety, and electromagnetic compatibility.
Consequently, the CA has warned that devices skipping these inspections could be hazardous.
“Through market surveillance, the Authority has noted an influx of Non-Type Approved mobile phones, which pose a safety and health risk to the users,” the regulator stated.
Furthermore, these unapproved phones are linked to poor performance and are known to cause “harmful interference” with national communication networks.
A ‘fake phone’ epidemic
The scale of the issue is significant, with the regulator’s data painting a worrying picture of the current market.
Recent reports from the CA indicate that between 30% and 40% of all mobile phones currently used by Kenyans are counterfeit. In practical terms, this suggests that as many as four out of every 10 devices in circulation are fake.
Meanwhile, the government noted it is intensifying its efforts to shield consumers from such substandard products.
The agency noted this new directive forms part of a broader national crackdown on counterfeit goods, aimed at removing potentially dangerous electronics from the market and ensuring that only quality-assured products remain.
How to verify your device
To protect themselves, members of the public have been urged to only buy from licensed telecommunication equipment vendors.
“The Authority therefore advises the public not to buy the above non-type-approved brands of mobile phones, and vendors are strictly prohibited from selling the same,” the CA added.
Additionally, the regulator has provided a simple method for consumers to check the authenticity of their handsets.
By dialling *#06#, a user can retrieve their device’s unique 15-digit IMEI number.
This number can then be sent via SMS to the code 1555 to confirm if the phone is genuine.
Alternatively, the public can verify equipment through the list of approved devices available on the Authority’s official website.
The CA has warned that it will not hesitate to take enforcement action against businesses found stocking the prohibited brands.
While shoppers are strongly advised to avoid purchasing these devices from any electronics shop, vendors have been reminded that selling unapproved hardware is a violation of the law.
In conclusion, the regulator maintains that strict adherence to the Type A approval process is the only way to guarantee that a device is safe for use.
By purchasing from licensed vendors found on the official register, Kenyans can ensure their technology meets the necessary standards for safety and connectivity.
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