CA Warns Kenyans Against Buying Unapproved Mobile Phones Over Safety Risks
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has cautioned consumers against purchasing or using mobile phones that have not been type-approved by the regulator, following the detection of a surge in uncertified devices entering the local market.
In a notice issued Tuesday, the authority said its market surveillance had uncovered an influx of non-type-approved mobile handsets, raising concerns over user safety, health and regulatory compliance.
According to CA, the affected devices may not meet national and international standards on safety, health and electromagnetic compatibility, potentially exposing users to hazards and causing harmful interference with other communication equipment.
“Through market surveillance, the authority has noted an influx of non-type-approved mobile phones which pose a safety and health risk to users,” the notice stated.
The regulator emphasised that its Type Approval framework is designed to ensure all ICT equipment entering Kenya complies with established technical specifications. These standards are meant to protect consumers from hazardous products, minimise health risks and safeguard the integrity of communication networks.
CA warned vendors against stocking or selling non-compliant handsets, noting that the practice undermines consumer protection safeguards and could attract regulatory enforcement action.
To avoid falling victim to substandard devices, consumers have been urged to buy mobile phones only from licensed telecommunication equipment vendors listed on the authority’s website. Buyers are also encouraged to verify whether a handset has been type-approved by cross-checking the official register of approved equipment.
The authority further advised consumers to confirm the authenticity of a device before purchase by dialling *#06# to obtain the handset’s 15-digit IMEI number and sending it via SMS to 1555, or by using the free IMEI verification tool available on its website.
CA reiterated its mandate as Kenya’s ICT sector regulator, overseeing telecommunications, cybersecurity, e-commerce, broadcasting and postal services, as well as managing the country’s numbering and frequency spectrum resources and administering the Universal Service Fund.
The warning comes amid growing concern over the proliferation of substandard electronic devices in the local market, with the regulator stepping up enforcement efforts to ensure compliance and protect consumers.
