Thailand and India are implementing new mandatory biometric authentication requirements for SIM card registration, with both countries set to enforce stricter regulations in 2025, marking significant developments in their respective digital identity initiatives.
In Thailand, the National Broadcasting and Telecom Commission (NBTC) has expanded its biometric registration program nationwide. Starting December 15, 2024, consumers must register their fingerprint or face biometrics for pre-paid SIM cards, extending beyond the existing requirement for post-paid accounts. Foreign visitors purchasing SIM cards will undergo facial scans matched against their passport photos. The program is part of Thailand’s broader efforts to strengthen digital security, following the Bank of Thailand’s recent mandate for biometric authentication in mobile banking.
The NBTC initially launched voluntary biometric registration earlier this year before mandating enrollment in southern regions. “The nationwide expansion primarily aims to enhance security for mobile banking and payment systems,” said NBTC head Takorn Tantasith, addressing growing concerns about digital fraud and identity theft in the region.
Meanwhile, India’s government has established Aadhaar-based biometric verification as a requirement for all new mobile SIM card connections. The directive, issued by the Prime Minister’s Office to the Department of Telecommunications, positions Aadhaar as the primary identification method for SIM activation. The regulation builds upon India’s existing digital identity infrastructure, which has already seen successful implementation in various sectors, including postal savings accounts and government services.
The Indian system implements immediate encryption of collected biometric data to prevent storage or reuse by mobile companies, adhering to data protection standards set by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI). The program includes plans to deploy AI-driven analytics tools for detecting irregular patterns in SIM card issuance and usage, representing a significant advancement in fraud prevention measures.
While India’s Telegraph Act of 1885 does not mandate Aadhaar for obtaining mobile SIM cards, the government promotes its use as a security measure. The system will maintain a centralized database of SIM card holders to support fraud investigations, complementing other recent developments such as biometric data locking features in the Aadhaar system and expanded digital KYC processes. The initiative follows India’s broader strategy of leveraging its national biometric ID system for enhanced security across various sectors, including tax administration and financial services.
Sources: ID Tech, The Nation Thailand, Zee Business
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