"Do not use counterfeit phones, they pose health risks"

Health News Saturday, March 16, 2019

Source: Graphic.com.gh

2019-03-16

Mobile phone users must be wary of counterfeit or counterfeit phones because of the risks they pose to the health and quality of the services they pose, warned the Ghana Telecommunications Chamber.

He explained that counterfeit phones were cloned versions of popular brands and models and were usually made from substandard materials, which meant that their users were exposed to higher radiation.

The fake phones were also responsible for providing poor quality service.

"It is unfortunate to know that these fake phones have an impact on the quality of service of network operators, providing a poor user experience," said Ken Ashigbey, President and CEO of the Chamber, on the day. this year's Consumer Rights Day at Rawlings Park in Accra.

Mr. Ashigbey said that fake mobile devices were "generally not tested and certified for security and were often made from cheap components".

He has therefore urged the public to purchase his cell phones, devices and accessories from reliable and accredited manufacturers and resellers of equipment, which could provide a way to verify the authenticity of their products.

Research

In a 2010 study by the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) in Ghana, it was found that fake mobile phones emit radiofrequency radiation higher than those internationally recognized as being safe for use in telecommunications. Human exposure.

The study found that for mobile handsets, the safe exposure threshold was 2.0 watts per kilogram (W / kg), but some of the phones tested in the study showed emission levels well above threshold.

In 2016, Tanzania disconnected more than 630,000 fake cell phones, joining Cameroon, South Africa and Nigeria in an effort to strengthen safety and health measures.

According to the experts, the counterfeit phones did not have authentic IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) numbers, which are essential for the identification and tracking of mobile phones, allowing criminals such as activists and terrorists to have access to mobile phones. escape more easily any detection.

Pre-recorded SIM cards

With more than 41 million SIM cards connected in Ghana and used for transactions such as mobile money and investments, Ashigbey called for increased security of devices and services.

Turning his attention to the registration of the SIM card, he warned the public against the purchase of prerecorded SIM cards, as they were fraudulent and exposed mobile phone users to cybercrime and cybercrime. 39, other security risks.

"We urge the general public to report anyone exchanging prerecorded SIM cards to police and mobile network operators. Prerecorded SIM cards compromise everyone on the network and as a sector we are committed to working together to fight this threat, "he said.

Quality of service

Quality of service issues remain a major concern for the public with call interruptions, poor Internet services, network congestion, and mobile money frauds.

Mr Ashigbey said that consumers have rights and responsibilities, added: "We will work with our customers to ensure that they do not compromise their security and the confidentiality of their data when they have access to these new services, more responsive products, greater comfort and choice. "

Parliament

Sam George, a member of the Special Parliamentary Committee on Communications, said the committee would pressure telecommunications companies to provide quality services, while working with them to enact legislation aimed at fight against fraud, fake SIM cards and fiber cuts.

A representative of the Consumer Protection Agency argued that Parliament should pbad the Consumer Protection Bill, which had been in the House since 2007.

For more information, visit: www.graphic.com.gh

Related Articles:

comments
This article has no comments yet, be the first to comment