New measures to prevent phone fraud: SIM cards can only be activated with identity document

The Government of the Republic of Moldova

Prepaid SIM and eSIM cards will only be able to be activated by confirming the user’s identity on the basis of an identity document. At the same time, this measure does not limit citizens’ access to mobile phone services – the sale of SIM cards will remain unrestricted. The decision was approved today by the Government in order to prevent fraud, scams, and other abuses committed through the anonymous use of phone numbers.

“In recent years, crimes affecting citizens have increasingly moved into the digital space and anonymous communications, with these platforms becoming tools used for fraud, scams, and false calls. Older people, citizens in vulnerable situations, and families put under pressure through fabricated scenarios are particularly targeted, often ending up transferring money to criminals. Today, a prepaid card can be activated without identity confirmation, and this anonymity is used in illegal activities and makes it harder to identify the perpetrators,” said Minister of Internal Affairs Daniella Misail-Nichitin.

The process of identifying users of mobile telephony cards will be possible both at sales points of operators or authorized persons, and through remote digital methods, such as electronic signatures, electronic identification means, or digital identity verification processes.

At the same time, safeguards are provided for the protection of personal data. The new rules do not allow access to the content of calls, messages, or location data. Only the data necessary for identifying the user will be collected.

The new provisions will apply only to numbers activated after the amendments to the Electronic Communications Law enter into force. Users who already have active prepaid cards will not be required to re-register them.

A period of 12 months is provided for the implementation of the project, so that operators can adapt their systems and internal procedures.

Currently, prepaid cards can be activated without identifying the person using them. This allows the anonymous use of phone numbers and creates vulnerabilities for public security.

Anonymous numbers are frequently used in telephone and computer fraud, scams, abusive calls, and false bomb threats, and the lack of identification data makes it difficult to determine the perpetrators and hold them accountable.