The ongoing sale of pre-registered subscriber identity module (SIM) cards on Facebook Marketplace poses a significant risk, as highlighted by the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) on Sunday. These SIM cards, which can be used for illicit activities, have raised alarm among authorities.
In a recent interview, PAOCC Executive Director Gilbert Cruz stated, “We need to implement more safety nets in the SIM registration process. Each card should be linked to an accountable individual to prevent bulk sales.”
Following the enactment of the SIM Registration Act (RA 11934) in 2022, the law aims to curtail criminal activities such as text and online scams by obligating SIM registration for all users. Despite this, the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group confiscated 7,900 pre-registered SIM cards, apprehending 38 illegal sellers in January alone.
With the reemergence of scam operations using text messages, stakeholders such as Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros have voiced concern. Additionally, Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Claire Castro suggested that a “personal” method in registering SIM cards would enhance security.
Senator Grace Poe, chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, underscored the need for a stricter application of the SIM Registration Act to mitigate the spread of pre-registered SIMs online.