SIM Re-Registration Plan Raises Privacy Concerns

The Government has approved amendments to SIM card registration regulations requiring re-registration of mobile numbers issued before 2 August 2019.

Officials say incomplete subscriber records have hindered criminal investigations and court proceedings, prompting the need to update legacy data. The proposal was presented by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake in his capacity as Digital Economy Minister.

The revised framework will also introduce provisions for registering subscribers aged 16–17 and streamline SIM issuance for foreign visitors.

However, privacy advocates warn that expanding subscriber databases raises concerns about data protection and oversight. Millions of users may need to resubmit identification details, creating logistical challenges for telecom providers and potential service disruptions for customers who fail to comply.

Mobile numbers are increasingly linked to banking and digital services, intensifying concerns about access interruptions.

Authorities say further details on implementation timelines and compliance procedures will be announced following regulatory amendments.

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