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| NCC Uncovers Over 100,000 SIM Cards Registered to Single Individuals Amid NIN-SIM Linkage Drive |
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has revealed that some individuals in Nigeria have registered over 100,000 SIM cards under their names. This discovery was made in partnership with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) during the ongoing NIN-SIM linkage exercise.
Security Threats from Excessive SIM Registrations
The NCC has expressed concerns that individuals with an unusually high number of SIM cards may pose a significant threat to national security.
To address this issue, the Commission is collaborating with security agencies and other stakeholders to crack down on the sale of pre-registered SIMs, thereby ensuring the integrity of mobile numbers and safeguarding national security in Nigeria.
NIN-SIM Linkage Policy and Its Implications
Under the NIN-SIM linkage policy, an individual is permitted to register a maximum of four SIM cards per network operator, excluding those intended for Internet of Things (IoT) devices like wearables and trackers.
The NCC emphasized that the complete linkage of all SIM cards to National Identification Numbers (NINs) is crucial for enhancing the trust and security of Nigeria's digital economy. This policy also aims to reduce the risk of fraud and cybercrime while supporting greater participation in digital banking, e-commerce, and mobile money services.
Legal Implications and Public Awareness
The NCC has reminded the public that the sale and purchase of pre-registered SIMs are criminal offenses punishable by imprisonment and fines. The Commission urged Nigerians to report any such illegal activities through its toll-free line or social media platforms.
In light of the recent discoveries, the NCC has announced a final deadline of September 14, 2024, for all telecom subscribers to link their SIM cards with their NINs. Lines not linked by this date will be blocked by network operators starting September 15, 2024. The announcement follows the NCC’s earlier directive in July, which temporarily barred millions of lines, before giving subscribers additional time to complete the NIN-SIM linkage process.
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