ENACOM Strengthens Control Over Irregular IMEIs

Resolution 300/2026, issued by the Argentine Communications Agency (ENACOM) and published in the Official Gazette on May 13, 2026, amended the existing procedure for blocking mobile terminal devices reported as stolen, lost, or misplaced, as well as for the identification of irregular IMEIs.
 

The Resolution updates and strengthens the obligations of Mobile Communications Service Providers (MCSP) and entities engaged in the commercialization of mobile terminal equipment (MTE), establishing that:

• MCSPs are required to block the telephone line, the IMEI (the unique identification code assigned to each mobile device), the IMSI (the unique numeric code that globally identifies a SIM card), and the associated telephone line, incorporating this information into a Negative Database (BDN) upon express request from the Argentine Ministry of National Security.
• MCSPs must record and retain all actions taken, ensuring the integrity and traceability of the information, which must be made available to users and/or competent authorities.

This measure forms part of a broader policy aimed at preventing and controlling the use of mobile devices in contexts linked to criminal activities. It is especially related to Resolution 336/2026, issued by the Argentine Ministry of National Security, which authorized the Federal Penitentiary Service to install and operate IMEI/IMSI detection and blocking devices in federal penitentiary facilities, and approved the applicable procedural manual governing such activities.