Biometric authentication to be mandatory for SIM card registration

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From The Nation

The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) plans to issue a directive requiring biometric authentication for SIM card registration as part of efforts to combat unauthorised SIM cards and online scammers.

NBTC Commissioner for legal affairs and chairman of the Subcommittee on the Integration of Technology Law Enforcement Pol General Natthorn Prohsunthorn said a recent meeting had discussed and approved urgent measures and strategies to combat telecommunications technology crimes, call-centre scams and boost state security.

“These measures are expected to provide a more concrete resolution to the problem of call-centre scams,” Natthorn said.

The NBTC, in collaboration with the police, recently seized numerous SIM boxes and SIM cards. Upon investigation, it was discovered that most of these SIM cards had been registered using fake identification documents or photographs of other individuals, primarily by foreigners, Natthorn said.

During the meeting, it was proposed that the NBTC issue a directive requiring biometric authentication for SIM card registration. Additionally, a limit was proposed for foreign workers from three nationalities, allowing registration of no more than three SIM cards per person per operator, and mandating the use of passports for registration. 

The meeting also recommended implementing a "Set Zero" policy for SMS systems containing links, requiring all operators to re-register and submit links for approval before sending.

Other measures discussed to combat call-centre scams included displaying the caller's name (Caller ID) and requiring internet signals from SIM cards for transferring significant amounts of money. These measures aim to make law enforcement efforts more efficient while making it harder for criminals to commit fraud.

The meeting also proposed a Caller ID system linked with the Royal Thai Police, displaying the caller’s name to the recipient, making it more challenging for scammers to deceive the public. Discussions with mobile operators are underway to establish appropriate guidelines.

https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/news/general/40045273

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A few years ago I went to an AIS store, and out of curiosity I asked whether there are any other simcards registered on my name, except the one I am currently using. Turned out there were 3 more and I had them cancelled immediately and got even some money back. I don't remember having bought an AIS simcard before my current one but I am pretty sure there is no way I had bought three.

We don't know what those shops at the airport, where you can buy a simcard, do with the copy of our passport ... So better buy simcards in the big official stores in the city.

If someone is in Thailand and bored right in this moment, go to your telecom store and ask how many simcards are registered on your name (you need the passport for this).

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Arriving in Danang last year, my VN friend purchased a one week sim card at one of the many vendors at airport. It stopped working after 24 hours. Luckily I didn't get one and relied on hotel wifi.