NCC proposes 14-day SIM deactivation notice to curb fraud, protect users
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has proposed mandatory 14-day notifications to subscribers before telecom operators deactivate or churn inactive SIM cards, aiming to strengthen consumer protection and combat digital identity fraud. Communications & Media Studies Under Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida, the initiative—outlined in a February consultation paper entitled, “Stakeholders Consultation Process for the Telecoms Identity Risks Management Platform”—amends Section 2.3.1 of the Quality-of-Service (QoS) Business Rules.
Currently, operators deactivate lines inactive for six months (no Revenue Generating Event) and recycle them after another six, barring network faults. The proposal mandates alerts via alternative mobile line or email at least 14 days before final churn for both prepaid and postpaid users, closing communication gaps. Mobile Phones
Post-churn, operators must upload details to the new Telecoms Identity Risk Management System (TIRMS) within seven days. TIRMS, set for launch by late March 2026, creates a centralised database of churned, swapped, or barred MSISDNs, enabling cross-sector verification for fintech, banks, CBN, SEC, NIMC, and security agencies to prevent fraud like identity theft from recycled numbers.
This RegTech approach addresses vulnerabilities where new users inherit prior owners’ fraudulent links, boosting KYC and digital trust. Subscribers can also “park” unused lines for one year at low cost.
Stakeholders have 21 days from publication to submit comments by March 20, 2026, per Section 58 of the Nigerian Communications Act 2003, before rules are finalised.
