The Ministry of Justice and Public Security launched the National Registry of Restricted Cell Phones (CNCR) on Monday (14/07), aiming to centralize information on stolen, lost, or robbed devices into a single, accessible database. This new platform consolidates data from the existing Safe Cell Phone program, allowing any citizen to verify whether a mobile device, particularly a second-hand phone, has any restrictions before making a purchase.
This Content Is Only For Subscribers
To unlock this content, subscribe to INTERLIRA Reports.
Aiming at Prevention
According to the National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel), the initiative is designed to strengthen efforts to prevent the circulation of stolen phones and to support crime prevention. It also offers increased consumer protection during the purchase of used phones. The new registry is based on the Safe Cell Phone database, which already has over 2.6 million registered users—as well as Anatel’s global database of mobile devices.
Available in the Safe Cell Phone App
The CNCR is integrated into the Safe Cell Phone app, which is available for both Android and iOS devices. Users only need the phone’s IMEI number—a unique 15-digit identifier—to perform a search. The app allows the IMEI to be entered manually or scanned directly using the device’s barcode.
How to Check a Phone
- To check whether a cell phone has any restrictions, follow these steps:
- Download the Safe Cell Phone app.
- On the home screen, select “Restricted Cell Phones.”
- Enter the 15-digit IMEI number manually or scan the barcode using your phone’s camera.
- To find the IMEI on the device, dial *#06# on the phone’s keypad.
If no restrictions are found, the app will confirm that the device is authorized for use.
Analysis:
The launch of the National Registry of Restricted Cell Phones (CNCR) represents an important step forward in Brazil’s strategy to combat mobile phone theft and related crimes. By centralizing data on stolen, lost, or robbed devices, the initiative improves coordination between users, law enforcement, and telecommunications authorities. This integrated system has the potential to significantly reduce the resale market for illegal devices, which often fuels broader criminal activities, including theft, robbery, and even organized crime financing.
From a public security perspective, the success of the CNCR will depend heavily on user participation and widespread adoption of the Safe Cell Phone App. Making the IMEI verification process accessible and user-friendly—through barcode scanning and simple instructions—is a crucial advantage. However, public awareness campaigns will be necessary to educate consumers, especially those who purchase devices through informal channels.
Sources: A Folha de SP.
