By Neo Kolane
Giant telecommunication company, Vodacom Lesotho, is urging its subscribers to register their SIM cards before the impending January, 31 2024 deadline.
This proactive measure aims to safeguard the interests of both customers and the company, ensuring seamless communication while preventing potential misuse of mobile services.
Vodacom Lesotho’s executive head of regulatory and external affairs, Tšepo Ntaopane says by linking a SIM card with a user’s identity, illegal activities such as fraud, identity theft and money laundering can be prevented.
Ntaopane said this in turn allows for easier tracking of suspicious or unauthorised activities, providing an additional layer of protection to both subscribers and Vodacom Lesotho and other operators.
“Registering SIM cards is not only a security concern but also a regulatory requirement enforced by the Lesotho Communications Authority and as such Vodacom Lesotho and other operators, seek to ensure compliance with the law and contribute to a safer digital environment,” he explained.
He also emphasized that verified and registered customers enable service providers to provide more efficient service provision because customer needs promptly becomes possible through accurate identification of users. The SIM card registration process does not violate an individual rights to privacy.
Ntaopane said the collected data is protected and used solely for intended purposes.
“The importance of striking a balance between privacy and security concerns is acknowledged and, as operators, we undertake to uphold the privacy rights of customers while also collaboratively working with regulatory bodies to implement necessary security measures.
“To register your SIM cards, locate the nearest customer service centre in your area where trained staff will guide customers through the registration process, ensuring all necessary details are accurately captured,” he pointed out.
Vodacom Lesotho advises its customers to bring along necessary documentation such as proof of identity (National ID card, passport with visa for foreigners, and birth certificate for minors).
As the deadline rapidly approaches, all unregistered SIM cards risk disconnection, leading to inability to make or receive calls, send text messages, or access data services and all mobile money (M-Pesa) services.
By urging subscribers to register their SIM cards before the deadline, Vodacom aims to comply with regulatory requirements.
The SIM card registration was launched on June 24 2022, by former minister of communications, science, and technology, Tšoinyana Rapapa in collaboration with the Lesotho Communications Authority (LCA) the mobile operators being Vodacom Lesotho and Econet Telecom Lesotho.
It is intended for legal imperatives such as avoiding misuse and abuse of the mobile cards.
