Biometric SIM registration seen as strengthening trust in digital ecosystem

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Telecommunications observer Heru Sutadi assessed that implementing biometric data-based SIM card registration rules supported by facial recognition technology can strengthen trust in the national digital ecosystem. According to him, applying biometric-based SIM card registration methods is now crucial because mobile numbers have become part of the public’s digital identity, connected to banking accounts, electronic commerce platforms, and government services. “A more accurate customer database will help create a more trustworthy digital ecosystem,” said the Executive Director of the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Institute. He stated that implementing a biometric data-based SIM card registration system could also reduce the possibility of anonymous SIM cards being used to commit online crimes. However, he cautioned that the implementation of such registration rules must prioritise personal data protection and digital inclusion so as not to create barriers for certain community groups. The new SIM card registration rules should not cause people in remote areas or vulnerable groups to have difficulty accessing telecommunication services due to limited infrastructure or inflexible verification processes. For example, digital fraud perpetrators, scam calls, and phishing often exploit data leaks and carry out social engineering to commit crimes. Heru stressed that the application of biometric-based SIM card registration rules must be accompanied by supervision measures, law enforcement, and improved digital literacy among the public. The government will implement biometric data-based SIM card registration rules starting 1 July 2026 to protect the public from mobile number misuse and various digital crimes. The implementation of the biometric SIM card registration system is supported by the use of facial recognition technology to match customer identities with government population data.