Algeria Clamps Down on SIM Sales Without ID
Algeria's telecoms regulator, the Algerian Post and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (ARPT) has ordered a clamp-down on the sale of mobile phone connections without proof of identity. While the country has always required ID to be shown, even for PrePay tariffs - the rule has been generally overlooked.
Although official outlets still require ID, there has been a growing grey market where SIM cards are sold by street vendors and tobacconists who were more relaxed about complying with the regulations. However, following an increase in terrorist bombings, the security services have asked the regulator to clamp down on unverified mobile phone sales.
Approximately 10-15 percent of Algeria's active customers have not registered their addresses with the operators - and will face having their lines cut off if they do not register by the end of April.
According to figures from the Mobile World, Algeria ended last year with around 28.2 million customers - so presumably around 3 million are liable to be disconnected in a couple of months time.
Posted to the site on 20th March 2008