The Indonesian government has issued new regulations allowing citizens full control over all mobile numbers registered under their identity (23/01). The policy aims to reduce digital fraud and cybercrime.

This regulation is set out in Minister of Communication and Digital Regulation Number 7 of 2026, covering registration for mobile telecommunication services.

It closes gaps that previously allowed numbers without verified identities to circulate, which were often used for scams, spam, and misuse of personal data.

Biometric Verification Becomes Mandatory

Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid stressed that SIM card registration is now an essential tool to protect citizens, not just an administrative procedure.

“Registration of telecommunication service customers must be carried out with accurate and responsible Know Your Customer (KYC) principles, including the use of facial recognition biometric technology to ensure legitimate customer identity,” Meutya said in Davos, Switzerland, on Friday (23/01/2026).

The regulation ensures that every mobile number is accountable to its rightful owner.

Limits on Number Ownership to Reduce Abuse

The new rules limit prepaid numbers to a maximum of three per identity per provider. Indonesian citizens must use their NIK and facial biometrics, while foreign nationals must provide passports and valid residence permits. Children under 17 are registered using the identity and biometrics of the head of the family.

Starter SIM cards (kartu perdana) must be distributed inactive and can only be activated after validated registration, preventing anonymous active numbers from circulating.

Consumer Control and Complaint Mechanisms

Telecom providers are required to offer tools for citizens to check all numbers registered under their identity. Users can request the blocking of numbers used without authorization.

“The policy also includes complaint mechanisms for SIM cards used in crimes or illegal acts. Numbers proven to have been misused must be deactivated by operators,” Meutya explained.

This ensures citizens can monitor and control their numbers, reducing misuse.

Data Security and Regulatory Compliance

Operators are responsible for maintaining customer data confidentiality and applying international security standards, including fraud prevention systems.

The government provides a re-registration process for customers previously registered with NIK and Family Card data, allowing migration to the biometric-based system. Administrative sanctions will be applied to providers that fail to comply, while requiring them to correct violations.

PHOTO: FREEPIK

This article was created with AI assistance.

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