New Regulations Proposed for SIM Card Use

In a bold move to combat fraudulent activities, the Hong Kong government has unveiled plans for new offenses under a real-name SIM card registration system. This initiative aims to make it illegal to misuse SIM cards registered in someone else's name.

Criminalizing Information Misuse

According to a proposal submitted to the Legislative Council (LegCo) this month, the government aims to outlaw the act of providing or soliciting personal details that would allow someone else to register a SIM card. This includes selling, leasing, or supplying SIM cards that are tied to another individual's personal information.

Strict Penalties for Abuse

In an effort to deter misuse, possession of a SIM card registered under someone else's name will also become a crime, unless one has a legitimate excuse. The proposal outlines that anyone found with ten or more such SIM cards will face a presumption of intent to facilitate criminal activities.

Shocking Findings from Market Surveillance

Recent surveillance by the Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA) has revealed alarming trends, such as individuals selling registered pre-paid SIM cards and tampering with registration processes. These actions not only undermine the purpose of the registration system but also hint at potential fraudulent schemes.

Stiff Penalties Ahead!

Proposed penalties include a hefty fine of up to HK$25,000 or imprisonment for up to a year. The police will spearhead the enforcement of these new laws, targeting those who exploit the SIM card system.

Exemptions for Legitimate Users

Interestingly, the proposal acknowledges that individuals or organizations with valid reasons for holding multiple SIM cards—such as family members, companies, or aged individuals using their family members' accounts—won’t be penalized under this new legislation.

Reduction of SIM Card Limits on the Table

Additionally, the government is considering reducing the limit on prepaid SIM cards for individuals from ten to three per service provider. This step is rationale to minimize fraud risk while maintaining convenience for genuine users.

What’s Next?

The amendments to the Telecommunications (Registration of SIM Cards) Regulation are set to be introduced for legislative review in 2026. Authorities express confidence that these new measures will effectively tackle fraudulent activities, safeguarding service users from potential threats.