Armenia's Justice Minister Defends IMEI Registration System
Armeniaβs Justice Minister rejects claims IMEI registration system is meant for public surveillance
Armenia's Justice Minister Srbuhi Galyan rejected concerns that a new IMEI registration system represents government surveillance of citizens. The Armenian government approved draft amendments to the Law on Electronic Communications on June 25, establishing a nationwide system to register and monitor International Mobile Equipment Identity codes on mobile phones.
Under the proposal, only legally imported or properly registered phones would operate on Armenia's networks. Information security experts and members of the public raised concerns about potential monitoring capabilities. Galyan stated the system's sole purpose is preventing illegal phone importation and emphasized that personal data protection standards will be maintained through new legislation currently in development.
The government plans continued consultations with industry representatives and parliament members. If adopted, the IMEI system is expected to take effect January 1, 2027.