INTRICACIES IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF REPUBLIC ACT 11934 ALSO KNOWN AS SIM CARD REGISTRATION ACT OF 2023

Abstract

The SIM Card Registration Act, officially known as Republic Act No. 11934 or the SIM Card Law, was signed into law by President Bongbong Marcos. This law requires the registration of SIM cards before they can be activated. Its primary purpose is to address issues related to online scams, hacking, fraud, and other crimes committed via mobile devices. By mandating the registration of SIM cards with public telecommunications entities, the law aims to protect consumers from malicious activities linked to unregistered SIM cards. The law seeks to reduce mobile phone-related crimes such as prank calls, kidnapping, mobile money fraud, and other security threats. The researchers utilized a survey questionnaire as the primary data collection instrument. The questionnaire was distributed to three groups of respondents: ten (10) members of the PNP Cybercrime Anti-Cybercrime Unit from the Quezon City Police District (QCPD), twenty (20) residents of Barangay. San Agustin, Novaliches, Quezon City, and twenty (20) criminology students from Best link College of the Philippines. The results of the study show that most respondents are between the ages of 18 and 25, with a majority being female. The assessment of the challenges in implementing R.A. 11934, particularly concerning privacy issues, false information, and enforcement difficulties, was generally favorable. However, respondents pointed out a significant loophole in the SIM card registration system, noting that it could be easily exploited by submitting false information. Based on the data gathered, the following recommendations are provided:  Strengthen verification processes to ensure the accuracy of the information provided by end-users during the registration process. This should include confirming that the details and documents submitted match the individual's official identification.  Enhance security measures by regularly conducting security audits and addressing any vulnerabilities to safeguard end-users' data. Continuous improvements should be made to protect sensitive information from potential breaches.  Mandate the submission of valid government-issued identification when purchasing SIM cards from resellers. This will allow Public Telecommunications Entities (PTEs) to accurately track SIM card ownership, making it easier for law enforcement agencies to investigate and address illegal activities or misuse of SIM cards.