Sim Registration

In an effort to curb rising incidents of cybercrimes, scams, and untraceable threats via mobile communication, the Philippines enacted the SIM Registration Act (Republic Act No. 11934) in 2022. The law mandates the registration of all SIM cards, requiring mobile users to link their SIM numbers to valid identification and personal information. This is one of the country’s most significant moves to enhance digital security and is seen as a major step toward securing the rapidly growing mobile and internet user base.

Why SIM Registration?

The primary reason behind SIM registration is to combat the increasing number of text scams, fraud, and other cybercrimes. Unregistered SIM cards have been widely used in criminal activities due to their anonymity, making it difficult for authorities to trace perpetrators. With mandatory registration, law enforcement agencies can now better track individuals involved in illegal activities, including phishing, identity theft, and fake prize scams, which have become rampant in the Philippines.

Another key goal of the law is to promote safer digital spaces, especially as mobile phones and the Internet are central to business, education, and personal communication. The SIM Registration Act aims to protect consumers from threats by ensuring that every SIM card is tied to an accountable individual.