Thailand blocks 2.14 million unregistered mobile phone numbers

This affects people with six to 100 unregistered SIM cards. If no registration is made within the next 30 to 45 days, the number will be permanently blocked.

• To increase security and prevent fraud, the NBTC has temporarily blocked 2.14 million mobile phone numbers because owners failed to meet the identity registration deadline.
• Individuals who own between six and 100 unregistered SIM cards have had their call, SMS and internet services blocked and have been warned that failure to register will result in permanent blocking and reassignment of numbers within 30 to 45 days.
• The NBTC is conducting a verification of 80 million mobile phone numbers linked to over 113 million mobile banking accounts to ensure that SIM card holders are matched to account holders. The process is expected to be completed by the end of September.

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has temporarily suspended 2.14 million mobile phone numbers whose owners failed to meet the identity registration deadline. This measure is intended to increase security and prevent fraud related to unregistered mobile phone numbers.

Those affected are those who own between six and 100 unregistered SIM cards. If these are not registered within the next 30 to 45 days, the numbers will be permanently blocked. The NBTC is also checking mobile phone numbers linked to mobile bank accounts to verify ownership. In addition, unauthorized cell signal boosters in border provinces are being tackled to ensure safe and compliant telecommunications operations.

The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) has ordered the NBTC to verify 80 million mobile phone numbers linked to 113 million mobile bank accounts to ensure that the SIM card holders match those of the account holders. The verification is expected to be completed by the end of September.

Source: NNT – NBTC blocks 2.14 million unregistered mobile phone numbers (prd.go.th)