Ironically, the SIM Card Registration Act may have only worsened the problem of the widespread misuse of SIM cards for fraudulent activities.
This is what Senator Sherwin Gatchalian wants to tackle as he announced his intention to consider amendments to Republic Act No. 11934, which was enacted in September 2022.
Despite the law’s enactment, law enforcement continues to discover registered SIMs, cell phones, computers, and pocket WiFi devices used in online scams, including love and cryptocurrency fraud, particularly within Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).
Gatchalian highlighted that these scams have led to substantial financial losses for victims.
He emphasized the need to identify individuals or organizations facilitating the illegal use of registered SIMs in POGOs to help lawmakers enhance existing laws and policies, including potential amendments to the SIM Registration Law.
Restrictions
Proposed amendments include restricting the number of SIMs a user can register, as well as regulating SMS marketing, political, and fundraising messages sent through SIMs.
“It is crucial for the government to protect unsuspecting Filipinos from fraud perpetrated by cybercriminals, including those using POGOs as scam centers,” Gatchalian said.
He pointed out that despite President Marcos’ directive to ban all POGOs, illegal operations may still persist.
He previously filed Senate Resolution 1054 to investigate the use of SIMs in illegal POGOs.
Recent raids in Bamban, Tarlac, and Porac, Pampanga, revealed numerous SIMs and digital devices used for fraudulent transactions.
#WeTakeAStand #OpinYon #OpinYonNews #SimCardRegistrationLaw #SenSherwinGatchalian