PNG to Strengthen Mobile Security Through New SIM Registration Reform
Papua New Guinea will introduce sweeping changes to its mobile network security in 2026, as the Government prepares to mandate SIM registration through the national SevisPass Digital ID. The reform is being positioned as a direct response to rising concerns around cybercrime, fraudulent activity and unverified mobile connections.
Acting ICT Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr. confirmed the decision after NEC endorsed reforms tied to outcomes from the Digital Transformation Summit. He said linking all SIM cards to a Government-issued digital identity is an essential step toward building a safer and more accountable mobile environment.
 |
| PNG to Strengthen Mobile Security Through New SIM Registration Reform |
NICTA is finalising the regulation to align with the National Digital Identity Policy 2025. All adults will be required to secure a SevisPass and authenticate their mobile numbers via the SevisWallet App. New SIM cards will not be activated without digital identity verification. Young users aged 13 to 17 will receive SevisPass-Minor IDs, while children under 12 will rely on Dependent SIMs registered by parents or guardians.
A nationwide grace period will run from 1 January to 30 June 2026, after which any number not linked to a valid SevisPass will be deactivated.
The reform will be overseen by a new Digital ID Implementation Authority responsible for managing the identity system and providing eKYC and Customer Due Diligence services to operators. Citizens will not pay for registration or SIM linking, though regulated service fees may apply to operators.
Enhanced privacy features will also be introduced, removing the requirement for telcos to store biometric data. Instead, encrypted SevisPass tokens will serve as the trusted identity marker. Authorities say the initiative aims to clean up the SIM environment, improve AML/CTF compliance, enhance digital security and ensure every mobile user in PNG is covered by a reliable national digital ID.
Also read
Post a Comment