Identify yourself or be cut off

Current pre-paid SIM owners must provide their details to their SP or face the termination of their number

From Wednesday, anyone buying a pre-paid SIM card in South Africa must provide proof of address and identification, according to a new law.

This week, legislation regulating tapping of phones and intercepting emails will come into force, making it necessary for anyone buying a pre-paid SIM card to provide proof of address and identification.

It further requires current pre-paid SIM owners to provide their details to their service providers or face the termination of their number.

Justice Department spokesperson Tlali Tlali has confirmed that the department would hold a press conference tomorrow to address concerns about the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-related Information Amendment Act.

"This legislation seeks to tighten up the current laws. It will focus on developing and maintaining a far more comprehensive and accurate database of information on the people using South Africa's telecommunications network.

"This is not about invasion of privacy. It is more about reinforcement and sharpening of the current legal instruments aimed at combating especially organised crime than it is about invasion of privacy," Tlali said.

He said details of what the deadlines would be for pre-paid clients to provide their details would be announced tomorrow. However, it is understood the time period will not be less than a year.

The new act will force cellphone operators, including Internet and email service providers, to keep SMSes, emails and voicecalls in an archive to allow for access by authorities.

Anyone selling cellphones or SIM cards is required by the act to keep records of the buyer's address, cellphone and handset number and keep a copy of the person's identity document. However, only a judge can unlock access to the archive by giving security agencies such permission.

Prepaid and ID discussion