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Hack Your Phone, Go to Jail
thodu writes: "This bill [Mobile Telephones (Re-Programming)] in the UK aims to make it illegal for anyone to change a GSM phone's IMEI number. Though the intention in this case is seemingly for the good (to track and prevent stolen phones from being used), the line between legitimate mods and illegal hacks is increasingly becoming blurred. What next - a bill to disallow modifying your PC ?"
Where is the legitimate use for this? Apart from the fact that this is done electronically, how is it any different from making it illegal to change your licence-plate number to someone elses, or changing the chassis number on a car?
Are there any legitimate reasons for changing a phone's IMEI? It's like changing the vehicle identication code on the chassis of a car.
As long as they don't make it illegal to unlock phones from a particular network I don't see the problem.
If you have windows XP installed that is.
There is a difference between this law and what you are talking about. You can modify your car completely but can you change your VIN number or license plate number with out notifying the proper authorities? No. This law isn't any different. I think there are some laws about hacking cells that seem unfair to me (can't remember what they are). I don't even think you can change a VIN number.
First, you have to know, not fear, know that someday you are going to die
He may be foaming at the mouth a bit, but he's right, you know. :P
Be wary of any facts that confirm your opinion.
Your 'right' to modify the phone, your property.
Hope that helps.
"Do I dare disturb the universe?"