NTC harnesses satellites vs crimes

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NTC harnesses satellites vs crimesBy EMMIE V. ABADILLA http://www.mb.com.ph/BSNS2006120381307.htmlThe National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) is now harnessing satellite communications to prevent crimes and protect consumer rights, Telenor Satellite Services Regional Manager Rodolfo Ramirez Jr. told reporters yesterday. NTC, together with Global Village Mobile Network, is beginning to use the newest mobile satellite service to register the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers of mobile phone transceivers on-line.The IMEI is a number unique to every mobile phone that uses the GSM (Global System for Mobile communications) technology, usually printed on the phone underneath the battery.GSM networks use the IMEI number to identify valid devices and therefore can be used to stop a stolen phone from accessing the network. For example, if a mobile phone is stolen, the owner can call his or her network provider and instruct them to block the phone using its IMEI number. This renders the phone useless, regardless of whether the phone’s SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card is changed.The commission is using the Telenor-Inmarsat’s Broadband Global Area Network (BGAN) service for IMEI registration as well as data administration and complaint processing of crimes involving the use of mobile phones.BGAN allows simultaneous voice and high-speed data communications in remote locations via a portfolio of small lightweight user terminals. The terminals range from ,400 to ,500 per set, while the BGAN service fees are close to, if not cheaper, than roaming charges for GSM.NTC will employ BGAN to register all licensed importers, dealers, retailers and technician networks, the IMEI numbers of all brand new and imported mobile phones and the IMEI numbers of mobile phones already in circulation, used and recycled.As part of the multi-million peso project, the commission will likewise create a consumer NTC data center where all IMEI numbers will be stored, along with program support affiliation network and a system to protect consumer privacy.All merchants will be required to register through the NTC central or the regional offices and branch networks of any government financial institution (GFI), such as the Philippine National Bank, the Development Bank of the Philippines and Land Bank.