Thailand Suspends Over 2 Million Unregistered Mobile Numbers

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) of Thailand has suspended the services of over 2 million mobile phone numbers after their owners missed the identity registration deadline on July 18, 2024.

This decisive move aims to enhance security and reduce fraud related to unregistered mobile numbers, ensuring a safer communication environment for all users.

Reasons Behind the Suspension

The affected numbers are primarily linked to individuals possessing between six and 100 unregistered SIM cards. This suspension affects their ability to make calls, send SMS, and access the internet. NBTC Commissioner Police General Nathathorn Prousoontorn emphasized the importance of this action, stating that if the SIM cards are not registered within the next 30 to 45 days, the numbers will be permanently revoked and redistributed. This stringent measure underscores the importance of compliance with registration regulations, reflecting the government's commitment to security.

Collaboration with Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO)

The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) recently tasked the NBTC with reviewing approximately 80 million mobile phone numbers associated with over 113 million mobile banking accounts. This measure is to ensure that the ownership of SIM cards matches the account holders, a process that is expected to be completed by the end of next month. The collaboration between NBTC and AMLO is pivotal in maintaining the integrity of mobile banking and preventing fraudulent activities.

“This initiative is crucial for national security and in combating fraudulent activities. We urge all mobile users to register their SIM cards promptly to avoid service disruption,” stated an NBTC spokesperson.

Impact on Mobile Users

The NBTC’s suspension affects 2.14 million mobile numbers, a significant step in the ongoing effort to secure mobile communications and financial transactions. This measure highlights the Thai government’s commitment to tackling fraud and misuse of mobile services. The suspension particularly impacts those holding multiple unregistered SIM cards, forcing them to comply with registration requirements or face permanent disconnection.

Tackling Call Centre Scams: A Broader Perspective

The suspension of unregistered SIM cards is part of a larger initiative to combat call centre scams and other fraudulent activities. The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) of Thailand, in partnership with the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO), launched a significant operation aimed at regulating mobile banking and combating call centre scams. This initiative led to the suspension of 1,096,000 phone numbers registered to users holding more than 101 SIM cards.

Strategic Measures Implemented by NBTC

A member of the NBTC board, Police General Nathathorn Prousoontorn, alongside other high-ranking officials, convened a meeting to assess the progress in addressing call centre gang activities. During the meeting, they unveiled several key measures being implemented.

Suspension of Unverified SIM Cards

One of the primary actions involves suspending unverified SIM cards. Users who have not verified their identities in accordance with NBTC regulations will have their services suspended. So far, NBTC has suspended 2,141,317 unverified SIM cards. Among these, 1,096,000 SIM cards were held by users possessing 101 or more SIM cards. This targeted approach aims to dismantle networks of fraudulent SIM card users and enhance overall security.

Scrutiny of Fraudulent Mobile Banking SIM Cards

The partnership also scrutinized fraudulent mobile banking SIM cards. NBTC received data from 21 banks through AMLO, covering 79 million bank accounts and 113,568,836 mobile banking phone numbers. This data is being analyzed to ensure that SIM card owners match the bank account holders. The verification process is ongoing and expected to be completed by the end of July 2024. This thorough examination is essential for maintaining the integrity of the mobile banking system and preventing identity theft.

Crackdown on Illegal Telecom Signal Towers

In addition, NBTC, in collaboration with the Royal Thai Police, is cracking down on illegal telecom signal towers installed along the border in five provinces: Tak, Chiang Rai, Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Ranong. These towers have been facilitating the operations of call centre scams. To date, 29 offenders have been prosecuted, reported Pattaya Mail. This operation aims to disrupt the infrastructure supporting fraudulent activities and safeguard legitimate communication channels.

Future Implications and Recommendations

The suspension of over 2 million unregistered mobile numbers by NBTC marks a significant step in enhancing national security and combating fraud. Moving forward, it is imperative for mobile users to comply with registration requirements to avoid service disruptions. Additionally, continuous collaboration between regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies is crucial in maintaining the integrity of mobile communications and financial transactions.

For mobile users, the key takeaway is the importance of timely SIM card registration. Failure to do so can result in service suspension and permanent disconnection. The NBTC’s stringent measures serve as a reminder of the government's commitment to security and fraud prevention.

The suspension of unregistered mobile numbers is a proactive step towards a safer and more secure communication environment in Thailand. The collaborative efforts of NBTC and AMLO, along with the support of the Royal Thai Police, highlight the country's dedication to tackling fraud and ensuring the safety of its citizens' mobile communications.