BTRC launches crackdown on unauthorised GPS operators

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has launched a strict campaign against illegal GPS tracking service providers. Already, 36 links, IP addresses and servers have been blocked by taking action against 3 companies.

The BTRC campaign is shutting down the servers of unlicensed vehicle tracking service (VTS) companies. Recently, the servers of these three companies - Motolock, Taslock and Sinotrack - have been shut down. In this regard, RAB also conducted a campaign last year and arrested three people for selling illegal GPS trackers and other devices and issued warnings.

Currently, the BTRC has directed various IIGs, ISPs and telecom operators to block these illegal services. In addition, the BTRC is investigating how a large number of SIM cards are purchased without authorization.

Millions of GPS users are in trouble due to the shutdown of the servers of illegal companies. Customers using the services of Taslock, Motolock, Sinotrack and other illegal operators are now facing various problems.

Meanwhile, spokespersons of the Vehicle Tracking Service Provider Associations of Bangladesh (VTSPAB) have welcomed this step of BTRC. They believe that this step is very important to encourage legitimate companies and will interest customers in using authorized services.

When contacted, GM Mashfiqur Rahman, MD and CEO of Wonderland IT Solution, a VTS licensee, told Views Bangladesh, "We have been demanding the BTRC for a long time. The initiative taken is certainly commendable. But in fact, the damage has already been done. We contribute to the government's revenue sector through VAT, tax revenue sharing in various ways. We import the devices with taxes. Even if we take evidence, it will be too late to take this initiative. When we started the business, this service was completely new in Bangladesh. There are many success stories. Once upon a time, there was a beautiful understanding between each company. Initially, 5 companies were given licenses. There was a quota for 20 companies. Out of the 20, only 7 companies continued thier business. It is a very expensive business. There are so many companies in such a small market. At one time, the price of a device was not below 5-7 thousand. Now, by providing services for 700,1200,1500 taka, the premium service that this business had has been destroyed. With so much competition, if these illegal companies do business again, it will be difficult for us to survive. It has become as if we have actually become hostages to the license.