The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced a USSD code, *315#, that enables phone owners to check whether their devices are approved for use on Nigerian networks.

The move follows warning SMS messages the commission began sending to some users under the sender ID “NCC-Checker”.

The messages say the handset is not verified for use on Nigerian mobile networks and advise recipients to contact their seller or dial 315.

The check is part of the NCC’s Device Management System (DMS), which uses a phone’s International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number to identify devices and flag those that do not meet regulatory standards.

The policy aims to clear the market of fake, substandard, and smuggled handsets. The NCC has said that as many as 40 per cent of mobile devices in Nigeria may be fake, substandard or cloned.

An unverified result does not automatically mean a phone is counterfeit. Owners who get one are advised to contact their seller or the NCC through its official channels.

Some groups have pushed back. The Association of Mobile Phones and Allied Products Traders of Nigeria rejected the compulsory device registration move in September.

Consumers who bought phones abroad or through private sales have also voiced concern about being wrongly flagged, and the NCC says it is preparing a registration process for those with legitimately acquired devices.

Reports also point to a 30-day window before unverified phones could be disconnected. Claims of registration fees of about ₦670 for standard phones and ₦3,700 or more for high-end devices have been circulating online, and users are urged to confirm any charges with the NCC before paying.