Kazakhstan drafts new mobile device rules with white, gray, black lists
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Kazakhstan's Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development has drafted amendments to mobile device registration rules. The draft introduces verification, registration, and re-registration procedures, along with white, gray, and black lists for device IMEI codes. The document is open for public discussion until September 14, 2026.
Key Facts
- The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development prepared the draft amendments to the rules for registration of subscriber cellular devices.
- The draft introduces three lists—white, gray, and black—for device identification codes, each with separate legal consequences.
- Device information will be checked against the GSMA database and state information systems.
- The draft provides for biometric authentication of applicants and primary users of communication services.
- The document will remain on public discussion until September 14, 2026.
Verification and Registration
The Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Development prepared a draft order to restate the current rules for registration of subscriber cellular devices in a new edition. The new document is titled "Rules for Verification, Registration and Re-registration of Subscriber Cellular Devices". The changes are linked to the introduction of a device verification institution in legislation. Verification will confirm the legality of a phone's origin and use in Kazakhstan's communication networks. Registration will link a verified device to its owner and subscriber number.
White, Gray, Black Lists
The draft provides for the formation of white, gray, and black lists in the database of identification codes of subscriber cellular devices. Separate legal consequences will be established for each list. Device information will be checked using the GSMA database and state information systems. Restrictions will apply to devices with signs of cloning, those included in the GSMA black list, and devices subject to court decisions or procedural rulings of authorized state bodies. The system will track the full life cycle of a phone from production or import into Kazakhstan to registration, change of owner, repair, cessation of use, or blocking.
Biometrics and Data Exchange
Additional verification will be carried out using biometric authentication of applicants and primary users of communication services. Automated data exchange with state information systems is also envisaged. The draft establishes requirements for legal entities that will carry out verification. A separate procedure is planned for suspending communication services on devices used in penitentiary institutions and pre-trial detention centers. Since August 20, 2026, Kazakhstan has already banned the sale of mobile phones that have not passed verification.
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Kazakhstan drafts new mobile device rules with white, gray, black lists
