This measure is designed to eliminate the possibility of anonymous use of SIM cards, which have become a tool for criminal activity, including false bomb threats, phishing scams, the coordination of drones used for smuggling, and other types of illegal activities.
Under the new rules, mobile service providers will be required to identify customers when a contract is signed or, in the case of prepaid cards, no later than the time of activation. The identification process can be completed both at retail locations and remotely using digital methods, such as a qualified electronic signature or biometric identity verification. For citizens of the Republic of Moldova, data verification will be conducted automatically via the MConnect government interoperability platform without the need to store copies of identity documents. At the same time, providers will be required to retain copies of foreign citizens’ documents.
To avoid blocking access to services immediately after purchasing a card, the draft stipulates that new SIM or eSIM cards may be used only to access the minimum necessary technical services—a list of which will be approved later by the regulatory authority—until the identification procedure is completed. In addition, to ensure the protection of personal data, the retention period for identification information will be strictly limited to the duration of service use plus 12 months after the number is no longer in use, in accordance with current legislation.
Authorities emphasize that this measure is proportionate and necessary to ensure national security. The implementation of the new provisions will be gradual.
