The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) warned the public about scammers online that solicit fees for Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card registration assistance.

In a public advisory posted on NTC’s website, the commission reiterated that subscribers should be extra cautious and not engage with individuals asking for money in exchange for their assistance in SIM card registration.

“Hindi inirerekomenda ng National Telecommunications Commission ang naglabasan sa social media na alok ng mga pribadong indibidwal ng pagtulong sa pagpapa-rehistro ng inyong SIM. Ang pagrehistro ng SIM ay libre at walang bayad. Mag-ingat at huwag maniwala sa mga taong hindi kakilala na nag-aalok ng tulong sa inyong pagpaparehistro, may bayad man o wala”, NTC said.

Recently, NTC led a text blast to inform the public regarding the matter.

Pursuant to SEC.  6 of the SIM Registration Act, it is stated that the registration required under this Act shall be implemented at no cost to the end-users. Public Telecommunication Entities (PTEs) shall ensure that the end-users' data are secured and protected at all times.

Telcos also reminded their subscribers that providing personal information to someone can lead to identity theft, hacking of mobile banking applications, and other crimes.

To report any issues related to SIM card registration, the public can reach NTC’s 24/7 consumer hotline 1682 or via email at consumer@info.gov.ph or kontratextscam@ntc.gov.ph.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) has also created SIM registration Complaint Center Hotline 1326. (JAFD/PIA-PMD)