**Aug 23, 2024**Authorities are advising the public against selling old cell phones to strangers due to potential cyber crime risks. When purchasing a new phone, its IMEI number is registered under the owner’s name. Should the phone be sold and used in a cyber crime, the original owner could be mistakenly investigated by authorities. Recent arrests by the Ramagundam Cyber Crime Police have highlighted this issue, with a Bihar gang caught exploiting this loophole. To avoid such complications, the police recommend securing old phones properly before disposal.