Senator Win Gatchalian proposes to amend the SIM Registration Law. The move comes as cybercriminals exploit SIM cards for illegal activities, including those associated with POGOs.
Despite the enactment of Republic Act 11934 (SIM Card Registration Act) in October 2022, the problem persists. Registered SIMs continue to surface in POGO operations, where they fuel various online scams — ranging from love scams to cryptocurrency fraud. These criminal activities inflict substantial financial losses on unsuspecting victims.
As for the senator’s proposed amendments, it will focus on two areas:
- Limiting SIM Registrations: Restrict the number of SIM cards that an individual can register. This could limit the proliferation of untraceable SIMs used in fraudulent activities.
- Regulating SMS Marketing: The proposed changes also target SMS marketing. Gatchalian seeks to establish guidelines for promotional, political, and fundraising messages sent via SIM cards. This move aims to strike a balance between legitimate communication and preventing misuse.
The use of registered SIMs remains a concern, enabling money laundering, cybercrime, and other illicit activities.
Recent raids in POGO hubs have yielded thousands of SIMs, along with hundreds of phones and digital devices. These items are used in fraudulent transactions, which underscores the need for legislative action.
As chair of the Senate Committee on Ways and Means, Gatchalian filed Senate Resolution 1054, seeking an investigation into the role of SIM cards in illegal POGO operations.
