The RF Group, Nokia`s distributor in southern Africa, has warned of an increase in the number of "rogue" cellphones on sale in SA.
"Due to the high demand for Nokia handsets, rogue elements within the retail sector have been encouraged to import phones from around the world," says Michael Myers, RF Group CEO.
Myers estimates that 5% to 10% of the Nokia handsets in circulation in SA are rogue phones, and he says several companies are selling them. This is not limited to Nokia phones, says Myers, as other manufacturers experience the same problem.
"Many of the phones, particularly those from Asia, are configured differently to South African phones due to regional requirements and specifications. They don`t work adequately here because of software differences." This affects functions like the downloading of games.
"Customers are arriving at customer care centres expecting full warranty and support on these phones. In many cases, the technicians have not seen these versions and are therefore not equipped to repair them," says Myers.
"It is not illegal to sell a rogue cellphone. It only becomes a problem for customers who would like their phones repaired. Customers buying a new cellphone should check for a RF Group warranty card."
Customers can call the RF Group`s 24-hour care line at 082 230 4050 to confirm if a dealer is selling a legitimate phone.
The RF Group states that while it supports a free market environment, where clients are accidentally buying products that are technically incompatible to networks, it feels they will later regret their decision.
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