The Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) plans to install device management systems (DMS) on phones in Kenya, according to ICT Cabinet Secretary Eliud Owalo. The goal is to combat the proliferation of counterfeit devices and theft.
Owalo stated that “the influx of counterfeit, substandard, and non-type approved devices in the country presents a huge problem.” He highlighted the importance of mobile phones in Kenya, emphasizing the need to address this issue.
What is a Device Management System (DMS)?
A device management system (DMS) refers to a software-based system that allows organizations to remotely manage, monitor, secure, and support connected devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and IoT devices across a network.
Key features of a device management system typically include:
- Remote configuration: Push out settings, policies, apps, certificates, etc. to devices
- Inventory management: Track details about devices like hardware, software, users
- Security management: Enforce security policies, passwords, encryption, etc.
- Support tools: Remote troubleshooting, device lock/wipe if lost or stolen
- Monitoring and analytics: Insights on device status, health, activity
A DMS gives administrators centralized visibility and control over all connected devices in an organization. This allows efficient IT management, security, and compliance enforcement for the devices people use to access company networks and data.
How the DMS Will Curb Telecom Fraud
The DMS will specifically target sim boxing, a type of telecom fraud where international calls are terminated or received over the internet and then fed into local mobile networks illegally. This allows criminals to bypass paying termination rates.
By identifying all active devices and isolating illegal ones, the DMS will create a whitelist of legitimate devices allowed on Kenyan mobile networks. Non-compliant devices will be automatically disabled.
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The preferred system is the IMEI control solution, which is less intrusive to consumers. Other countries already use IMEI blocking to combat illegal device use.
Weighing Security Against Privacy
Owalo assured that the implementation will comply with Kenya’s constitution and laws, and it is not intended for mass surveillance. CA recognizes that gaps at the network and subscriber level create vulnerabilities for criminals – the DMS will close those gaps.
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“It is recognised that gaps may exist at the network or subscriber end that create system vulnerabilities. Hence the need to find solutions that either eliminate or significantly reduce the threats to our society,” said Owalo.
CA will work closely with agencies like the Anti-Counterfeit Agency, the National Police Service, the Kenya Bureau of Standards and others to identify and pursue fraudsters abusing counterfeit or stolen devices.
By combining robust technical measures through the DMS and collaboration with relevant government agencies, the CA hopes to clamp down on telecom crime. However, its implementation warrants continued scrutiny to avoid overstepping.
Further refining plans through constructive dialogue could enable tackling counterfeits while also upholding privacy.
