Seized SIM cards in Jan 2025 more than double 2024 total 鈥� PNP
STOCK PHOTO OF SIM CARDS
MANILA, Philippines — The number of pre-registered subscriber identity module (SIM) cards confiscated by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in January 2025 more than doubled the total seized in the entirety of 2024, the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) said.
Data released by the ACG on Tuesday showed that the unit seized 7,900 registered SIM cards, a 240.34-percent increase from the 3,287 registered cards confiscated in 2024.
According to the ACG, 38 individuals were arrested in 31 entrapment operations from Jan. 1 to 31 to curb the illegal sale of SIM cards. Among those arrested was a minor who was placed under the custody of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
Complaints for violating the SIM Registration Act were filed against the suspects.
Further, 19 of the cards seized were linked to bank accounts and e-wallets, in violation of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act.
Article continues after this advertisementREAD: PNP-ACG warns public vs buying illegally pre-registered SIM cards
Article continues after this advertisement“We strongly urge the public to refrain from purchasing registered SIM cards and to ensure that their own SIMs are properly registered,” the ACG director, Brig. Gen. Bernard Yang, said in a statement on Tuesday.
“This is a vital step in preventing cyber fraud and safeguarding the public against cybercriminal activities,” he added.
READ: DICT admits gaps in SIM registration, calls for stricter implementation
The Department of Information and Communication Technology (DICT) previously acknowledged gaps in implementing the SIM Registration Act, stressing the need for stricter identity verification measures.
