The Crime-Fighting Benefits of SIM Card Registration

Following the deactivation of unregistered SIM Cards by MTC and Telecom at the end of March, this article aims to outline the benefits associated with SIM card registration.

SIM cards are essential in enabling communication through mobile phones.

However, concerns have increased over the misuse of SIM cards in criminal activities such as fraud, theft under false pretences, terrorism and other illegal acts.

To combat these issues, many countries have implemented mandatory SIM card registration policies.

Significantly, SIM cards enable criminals to carry out various illegal activities.

Criminals often use unregistered or anonymous SIM cards to communicate with each other, plan criminal activities, and to evade law enforcers.

These untraceable SIM cards make it easier for criminals to operate without being detected or identified.

FRAUD AND PHISHING

One of the most common crimes associated with using unregistered SIM cards is fraud.

Criminals carry out phone scams, phishing attacks, and identity theft, among other fraudulent activities.

The anonymity provided by unregistered SIM cards makes it difficult for authorities to track down and apprehend these criminal elements.

To address these issues, many countries have implemented mandatory SIM card registration policies.

By requiring individuals to provide identification and personal information when buying a SIM card, authorities can trace and track the usage of a SIM card back to the registered owner.

This makes it easier for law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute individuals involved in criminal activities.

PUBLIC SAFETY

SIM card registration also helps to deter criminals from using unregistered SIM cards in the first place.

Knowing that their identities are linked to a SIM card, criminals are less likely to engage in illicit activities that could lead to their arrest.

In short, it acts as a deterrent and helps to reduce the prevalence of crime.

SIM card registration can also help to improve public safety and national security.

By monitoring and tracking the usage of registered SIM cards, authorities can identify and disrupt criminal networks, prevent terrorist attacks and combat other threats to public safety.

This proactive approach can help to safeguard communities and protect individuals from harm.

In conclusion, the registration of SIM cards is an important tool in the fight against crime.

SIM card registration is essential for enhancing public safety, national security and the overall well-being of society.

• * Mumbala Tomas Shandjemwene is a former military police officer. He holds a bachelors degree in criminal justice in policing (Nust) and a post-graduate diploma in security and strategic studies (Unam).