Importance

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Abstract

This invention is a method of identifying and validating a cellular telephone for activation and for subsequent servicing after activation. A cellular service provider (CSP) (401) specifies an International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) number for a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM), generates a Mobile Station Integrated Services Digital Network (MSISDN) telephone number, associates the MSISDN with the IMSI in a table, and orders a SIM from a SIM manufacturer (403). The SIM manufacturer manufacturers the SIM, programs the IMSI into the SIM, places a SIM serial number on the SIM, sends the CSP information associating the SIM serial number with the IMSI, and sends the SIM to a Distribution Center (405). A hardware vendor (407) sends a handset and an International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number for the handset to the Distribution Center. The Distribution Center assembles the SIM and the handset to form a cellular telephone, generates a product package number for the cellular telephone, sends the cellular telephone to a destination (411), and sends information concerning the SIM serial number, IMEI, and product package number to the CSP. The CSP updates the table to associate the IMSI, IMEI, SIM serial number, product package number, and MSISDN. The CSP thus has complete information concerning the cellular telephone, can verify the identity of the cellular telephone for validation before the owner is allowed unrestricted use of the cellular telephone, and can automatically route a call to the appropriate service assistance or message when the user has a question.

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First Claim