Laying Down the Law: Recent Developments in Russia's Mobile Communication Services and SIM Card Management
Self-exclusion installations to commence from September 1st onwards.
In a concerted effort to combat cyber fraud and mass fraudulent calls, Russia has introduced a series of impactful regulations and updates regarding mobile communication services and SIM card management.
The Power of Self-Bans and Goservices
Starting September 1, 2025, citizens can opt for a self-ban on contracting mobile services through Goservices or MFC. This new regulation empowers users to check the number of registered SIM cards through Goservices, without needing to contact each individual operator. Plus, if needed, you can promptly block any unwanted or suspicious SIM cards, all within your personal account [@expert_mag].
Keeping it Limited: SIM Card Issuance Controls
April 1, 2025, saw the implementation of amendments to the Telecommunications law. Operators are now restricted from registering more than 20 SIM cards for one Russian citizen and 10 for foreigners. Russell must disavow excess SIM cards by November 1, and non-Russians by July 1, in a bid to stifle mass fraudulent calls [@expert_mag].
Biometric Accountability
To bolster digital identity verification, Russian citizens are required to link their mobile numbers to a Gosuslugi account and an SNILS number. Foreigners must provide biometric data, such as facial scans, when purchasing SIM cards in person at service centers. This information is integrated into Russia's Unified Biometric System, strengthening surveillance and minimizing fraud [1][3].
The Rise of Biometrics in Banking
Leading banks in Russia like Sberbank have assimilated biometric payment systems into their services, relying on the Unified Biometric System for identity verification. This integration helps monitor transactions and reduce fraud [1]. All commercial entities collecting biometric data must transfer it to the UBS for centralized tracking and fraud prevention [1].
These extensive measures all contribute to increased security, decreased fraud, and improved management of mobile communication services in Russia.
- Starting September 1, 2025, Russian citizens can opt for a self-ban on contracting mobile services through Goservices or MFC.
- From April 1, 2025, operators are limited to registering no more than 20 SIM cards for one Russian citizen and 10 for foreigners.
- To bolster digital identity verification, Russian citizens are required to link their mobile numbers to a Gosuslugi account and an SNILS number, while foreigners must provide biometric data when purchasing SIM cards.
- Leading banks in Russia like Sberbank have assimilated biometric payment systems into their services, relying on the Unified Biometric System for identity verification, which helps monitor transactions and reduce fraud.
