Myanmar’s military regime has introduced a sweeping mobile‑device registration system, sparking warnings that it will tighten surveillance and restrict the flow of information.

The new central equipment identity register (CEIR), rolled out in early March, requires every handset’s unique IMEI number to be registered before it can connect to a network. Previously, only SIM cards were tied to users. Under the new rules, anyone failing to register by 31 March faces a 30‑day usage limit and eventual blocking.

Officials insist the measure is about ensuring phones are properly taxed and compliant. But IT specialists say the real aim is to track users more closely. Once a device’s IMEI is logged, switching SIM cards no longer offers protection. “If a handset becomes linked to resistance activity, discarding the SIM won’t break the trail,” one expert explained. “They will still know which device is being used and where.”

Digital‑rights advocates warn that linking IMEI numbers with SIM registration gives authorities the ability to map a person’s movements, identify contacts and intercept calls. “This isn’t about public benefit,” said Thit Nyan of the Myanmar Internet Project. “It’s about expanding surveillance and repression.”

The system contrasts with most democratic countries, where phones work freely unless reported stolen. Myanmar’s whitelist approach, where only “approved” devices connect, mirrors practices in Turkey and Pakistan.

Since the 2021 coup, the military has repeatedly used telecom operators and personal data to track and arrest opponents. The new registration scheme, combined with digital ID initiatives and expanded interception technology, is seen by rights groups as another step towards a comprehensive surveillance state.

For ordinary users, the change means that even imported or second‑hand phones must be registered and taxed. For activists and those in border areas, it raises the risk that their devices could be blocked or traced, regardless of SIM changes.

As the deadline looms, the rollout underscores how Myanmar’s junta is using technology not just to collect revenue, but to consolidate control over communication and dissent.

-2026-03-08

Like the article says, once they have the IMEI number they can track the phone or, using radio direction finding (RDF), pick it out of others. I worked with law enforcement agencies that needed to locate cell phones using RDF. If I was within 1/2 mile of a cell phone, I could drive right up to it's location using RDF. If it was moving then I could follow it.

Using the cell tower signal strength readings, they can get an approximate location. Using time difference on arrival (TDOA), they can geolocate a cell phone.