REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA - Ministry of Trade records there are 250 million mobile phones circulating in Indonesia and about 70 million of them without international mobile equipment identity (IMEI) number. Without the IMEI number, a mobile phone is regarded illegal. 

"I am afraid this situation will continue to affect economic perspective, fiscal, social, and also security," Minister of Trade Gita Wirjawan said on Thursday.

Government losses could reach 35 trillion IDR, not including unpaid taxes. To tackle this government will take collective actions with other institutions, including Ministry of Communication and Information. Government for example, conducts sudden inspection and visit. Government warns that all stakeholders including merchants must be responsible for the products they sell. 

Then how do you know if your mobile has the IMEI number? Try this: press *#06# and wait the number prompts. If no number shows on the screen, your mobile could be an illegal one.   

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