The National Privacy Commission warned traders against registering SIM cards for the primary intention of selling them.
It noted an alarming number of reports where certain individuals were reportedly enticing unsuspecting individuals with monetary offers, averaging P1,000, in exchange for SIM cards that were registered.
The NPC said the practice is not only prohibited under the SIM Registration Act or Republic Act No. 11934, but it also places data subjects in a vulnerable position, exposing them to potential legal repercussions, risks and harms if a SIM card, registered in their name, is misused for illicit activities.
The NPC advised subscribers to educate themselves about the legal and privacy implications of registering and selling SIM cards. Familiarization of the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and its provisions may also help to educate the SIM card holders, it said.
The NPC urged citizens to be cautious on unsolicited offers to purchase registered SIM cards and report suspicious activities immediately.
SIM card holders are also advised to report any change of information with the telecommunications companies and promptly report any changes in the information of the subscriber, so telcos can update their database in accordance with the SIM Registration Act.
Before transferring ownership of a SIM card, the owner should ensure that proper identity verification procedures are followed and if ever an owner decides to sell or transfer a registered SIM card, they should adhere to the legal requirements for reporting such transactions as required under the SIM Registration Act, it said.
Based on the SIM Registration Act, violators found to have engaged in or be involved in the sale or transfer of a registered SIM without complying with required registration or without properly informing the telco concerned face imprisonment of six months up to 6 years or a fine of P100,000 to P300,000, or both.
The NPC said it is prepared to take appropriate actions against those who disregard and violate the Data Privacy Act of 2012 and related issuances.