The PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) is calling for reforms to the SIM Registration Act. The agency wants the National ID with biometrics to be the main requirement for registering SIM cards.
ACG chief Maj. Gen. Wilson Asueta said the change will help stop fraud and make digital transactions safer. He also proposed limiting SIM ownership to five per person and requiring proper documents for SIM transfers.
From January to July 2026, police arrested 766 suspects for cybercrime. Most cases involved online selling scams. Authorities also rescued 149 victims and secured 81 convictions.
One recent case in Bulacan showed how serious the problem is. Police caught a suspect selling registered SIM cards online and seized 400 SIMs during the operation.
The PNP is working with telcos, the National Telecommunications Commission, and other agencies to set up a one-ID system. The plan aims to reduce scams and improve trust in online services.
Also Read: PNP-ACG pushes regulatory body for social media and gaming platforms
If approved, the reforms will tighten SIM registration rules and give law enforcement stronger tools against cybercrime.
