Government Plans to Regulate Dual SIM Card Usage in Smartphones

The government is set to introduce new regulations regarding the use of dual SIM cards in smartphones, potentially imposing fines on users who maintain two SIMs but only utilize one. This initiative aims to prevent the misuse of mobile numbers, which are considered government property. The telecom regulatory authority is also planning to deactivate inactive SIM cards to protect the user base. With over 219 million mobile numbers at risk of blacklisting, this move reflects a growing trend seen in various countries where telecom companies charge for mobile numbers. Discover the full details of this significant development.
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New Regulations for Dual SIM Users

Government Plans to Regulate Dual SIM Card Usage in Smartphones

Mobile SIM Cards: Many individuals possess two SIM cards in their devices but often utilize only one. These mobile numbers are considered government property, allocated to telecom providers for a specified duration.


Government's Initiative on SIM Cards: A significant update has emerged for users with dual SIM cards in their smartphones. The government is contemplating imposing penalties for the use of two SIM cards within a single device. According to a report from a leading publication, the telecom regulatory authority has drafted a proposal aimed at curbing the misuse of mobile numbers.


The regulator has noted that numerous users maintain two SIM cards but only actively use one. It emphasizes that mobile numbers are government assets, assigned to telecom companies for a limited time. The government reserves the right to impose fees for these SIM cards.


Plans to Deactivate Unused SIM Cards


Data from the telecom authority indicates that mobile service providers are considering deactivating SIM cards that have remained inactive for an extended period to maintain their user base. According to existing regulations, users who fail to recharge their SIM cards for a prolonged duration may face blacklisting. Consequently, the telecom authority is preparing to impose fines on mobile operators. Reports suggest that over 219.14 million mobile numbers are at risk of being blacklisted due to inactivity.


Mobile Number Charges in Various Countries


Telecom companies in nations such as Australia, Singapore, Belgium, Finland, the UK, Lithuania, Greece, Hong Kong, Bulgaria, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Poland, Nigeria, South Africa, and Denmark impose charges for mobile numbers.


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