SINGAPORE—In a significant move to counter escalating scams, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and the Singapore Police Force (SPF) announced fresh regulations on SIM card registrations. Starting 28 February 2024, individuals can only register a maximum of 10 postpaid SIM cards across all telecom providers, consolidating existing measures aimed at preventing illicit use.
New SIM Card Limits and Their Purpose
This latest regulation is set to tackle the troubling trend where ‘SIM mules’ accumulate cards for criminal syndicates. Previously, individuals were allowed to register up to 10 SIM cards with each telco, but this change narrows it down to a unified limit across all providers. “This aims to minimise the illicit purchase and use of SIM cards while catering to legitimate users,” said the authorities in a joint release.
- Individuals with more than 10 registered SIM cards before the new rule can keep them but cannot add more.
- Data-only SIM cards that can’t send messages or make calls and SIMs for corporate plans remain unaffected.
- The move builds upon existing anti-scam measures, following a reduction in the maximum number of prepaid SIM card registrations from 10 to three in April 2015.
Crackdown on Sim Mules
Despite implementing stringent measures—including requiring national identification for registrations—the authorities have noted an unfortunate rise in the number of individuals purchasing SIM cards on behalf of scammers. Between 8 and 16 January, 35 arrests were made for suspected participation in these illegal activities, with individuals allegedly motivated by offers ranging from S$15 to S$20 per SIM card.
In order to further deter such activities, proper enforcement will entail warnings against enabling crimes through SIM card registrations. Those caught knowingly providing such cards for illicit activities face severe penalties—including hefty fines and up to three years in jail.
Ongoing Measures Against Scams
The IMDA is committed to continually assessing the effectiveness of existing regulations and could implement additional measures if necessary. Citizens are urged to protect themselves by refusing to lend their SIM cards and staying vigilant against potential scams.
As these new measures take effect, Singapore aims for safer and more responsible use of telecommunications, ensuring that legitimate customers retain access while scamming activities become harder to facilitate.