Fake ISI Marks on the Rise? Here's How to Verify a CML Number Online

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has introduced an important update to strengthen the verification of ISI-marked products and help consumers identify genuine certification licences. With reports of counterfeit products carrying fake ISI marks increasing across various sectors, BIS has upgraded its Product Certification Licence numbering system by introducing a standardized 10-digit Conformity Mark Licence (CML) number format.

The new system is designed to improve product traceability, simplify online verification, and reduce the risk of fraudulent certification claims. Consumers, manufacturers, importers, distributors, and other stakeholders can now more easily verify whether a product is genuinely certified under a valid BIS licence.

Why This BIS Update Matters

The ISI Mark is one of India's most recognized symbols of quality, safety, and compliance. It indicates that a product conforms to the applicable Indian Standard and is manufactured under a valid BIS licence.

However, the misuse of ISI marks and fake licence details has become a growing concern. Products bearing unauthorized ISI logos can mislead consumers and create serious quality and safety risks. To address this issue, BIS has introduced a uniform 10-digit CML numbering system that makes licence verification simpler and more reliable.

What is the New 10-Digit CML Number Format?

BIS has clarified that all Product Certification Licences are being migrated to a fixed 10-digit identification code format. For example:

The upgrade simply adds leading zeros to existing licence numbers and does not affect the validity or certification status of any BIS licence.

This initiative aims to create a uniform numbering structure across the entire BIS certification ecosystem and improve digital verification processes.

BIS Clarifies Transition to the New Format

According to the latest BIS clarification, both licence formats will remain valid during the transition period:

• Existing licence number format
• New 10-digit licence number format

Stakeholders can verify products using either version of the licence number through official BIS verification platforms without any interruption.

This ensures a smooth migration process while manufacturers gradually update packaging, documentation, marketing materials, and compliance records.

How to Verify a BIS CML Number Online

BIS has made licence verification simple through its online portal and BIS Care mobile application.

• Visit the BIS Official Website:Open the BIS online portal and log in using your credentials. New users can register or recover their account details if required.
• Access the Product Certification Section:Navigate to the Product Certification section, where services related to ISI certification, licence management, and verification are available.
• Select "Verify the BIS Licence":Click on the verification option to open the licence verification page.
• Enter the 10-Digit CML Number:Carefully enter the BIS CML number exactly as printed on the product packaging or certification documents.
• Review the Verification Results: If the licence is valid, the system will display:
• Manufacturer name
• Product name
• Applicable Indian Standard (IS Number)
• Manufacturing location
• Licence validity status
• Product certification scope
• Verify Through the BIS Care App:Consumers can also use the BIS Care mobile application to verify licence details, report misuse of certification marks, and file complaints regarding non-compliant products.

Why Checking the CML Number is Important

Verifying the CML number offers several benefits:

• Protection Against Fake ISI Marks:Consumers can identify whether a product is genuinely certified and avoid counterfeit products carrying unauthorized ISI logos.
• Confirmation of Regulatory Compliance:The verification confirms that the product has been manufactured under a valid BIS licence and complies with the relevant Indian Standard.
• Better Consumer Confidence: Authentic certification information provides assurance regarding product quality, safety, and reliability.
• Manufacturer Traceability:Users can identify the licensed manufacturer and verify certification details directly through official BIS databases.
• Reduced Risk of Fraud:Licence verification helps prevent misuse of certification marks and protects buyers from misleading claims.

Additional Digital Services Available Through BIS

The BIS online platform now provides several digital services for manufacturers, applicants, and consumers, including:

• Application submission and tracking
• Certification management
• Licence verification
• Complaint filing
• Deficiency monitoring
• Renewal applications
• Status tracking
• Regulatory updates

These services help businesses remain compliant with evolving certification requirements while maintaining product quality and safety standards.

Benefits of the New 10-Digit Licence System

• Enhanced Digital Verification:A standardized numbering format improves authentication across online platforms and verification systems.
• Improved Data Management: Uniform licence numbers allow BIS to maintain a more efficient and organized certification database.
• Better Product Traceability:Manufacturers, regulators, and consumers can more easily track certified products and licence details.
• Smooth Business Continuity:Since both old and new licence formats remain valid during the transition period, businesses can continue operations without disruption.
• Impact on Manufacturers and Importers: Businesses holding BIS licences should gradually adopt the new 10-digit licence format in:
• Product packaging
• Product labels
• Marketing materials
• Compliance records
• Certification documents
• Internal databases
• However, BIS has clarified that existing licences remain fully valid and there is no immediate requirement to replace products already in the market.

Conclusion

The introduction of the new 10-digit CML number is an important step by BIS to make product verification easier and more reliable. By using a standard licence number format, BIS aims to improve transparency, product traceability, and consumer protection.

As fake ISI marks continue to appear in the market, consumers should verify the CML number before purchasing any BIS-certified product. A quick online check can help confirm whether the product is genuinely certified, identify the licensed manufacturer, and ensure compliance with Indian quality and safety standards.

Businesses that need assistance with BIS certification and compliance can also seek support from experienced BIS consultant such as EVTL India. This new system will help create greater trust in certified products and make it easier to identify genuine BIS licences.