Proposed plans to add biometrics to the SIM card registration process have been approved by The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission of Thailand. The 2019 regulations look to be revised mandating biometrics to be used by telcos for customer verification in order to prevent online fraud and voice scams. The measures prevent the proliferation of “mule accounts”, which are set up by fraudsters to commit financial crimes and scams.
Mobile operators will have 180 days to comply with biometric verification,a proven method which would mitigate fake SIM accounts being created to disguise money laundering.
The signs of a fraudulent registration would include the use of fake or edited photos and false information. Whilst many telcos have already implemented biometrics, they should look to invest in advanced systems used by mobile services for example banking if the rules are enforced. New limitations will be imposed on foreign SIM customers, limiting 3 SIMs per person, per service provider for up to 60 days use.
