NCC unveils framework to curb fraudulent SIM activities

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) on Thursday launched consultations with stakeholders on a framework to block fraudulently registered Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) numbers by telecom operators. The regulator said the initiative aims to bring together industry experts, security agencies, financial regulators, government bodies, and consumers to build a safer and more reliable digital communications ecosystem. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman (EVC) of the NCC, disclosed this at a stakeholders engagement in Abuja, noting that the commission had initiated a consultative process on the Telecoms Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS) platform to address challenges related to SIM usage. Speaking at the event, Maida highlighted the need to strengthen regulatory foundations, pointing out that the evolution of SIMs into critical identifiers for financial transactions, digital authentication, and access to essential services has introduced new vulnerabilities. “The fraudulent use of churned, recycled, swapped, and barred SIMs has become a major vector for financial fraud and identity theft, eroding public trust in digital platforms and undermining systems we have worked hard to build,” he said. He explained that the TIRMS platform provides a secure, standardized approach for managing risks tied to registered SIM numbers. The system will enable service providers to verify numbers flagged for dormancy, suspicious, criminal, or fraudulent activities before granting access to services. To strengthen the regulatory framework, the NCC has proposed amendments to the Quality of Service (QoS) and Registration of Communications Subscribers regulations. These include notifying affected subscribers at least 14 days before a line is churned, submitting churned number details to TIRMS within seven days, and establishing a framework for blocking fraudulently registered or misused SIMs. Maida said the measures would enhance digital security, improve accountability, and promote transparency, while providing regulatory clarity. He also emphasized the commission’s participatory approach to rulemaking, highlighting collaboration with stakeholders, regulators, and law enforcement agencies to create a “One Government” approach bridging sectoral gaps.