Ministry of Communication and Digital guarantees biometric data security for new mobile number registrations

The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Kemkomdigi) has assured the security of citizens’ data during facial biometric verification for new mobile number registrations.

Director General of Digital Ecosystem Edwin Hidayat Abdullah stated this because mobile operators do not store biometric verification data.

“There are no mobile operators storing data. The data from your biometric checks is only retained by Dukcapil (Civil Registration), not the operators. No facial data of citizens is stored by the operators,” Edwin said in Jakarta on Friday.

Edwin explained that biometric verification can be conducted at mobile operator outlets or via their websites and apps, such as Telkomsel’s myTelkomsel, XL’s myXL, and Indosat’s myIM3.

Facial data is then sent to Dukcapil for similarity checks. After submission, Dukcapil will respond whether the data matches.

Once verified, the number should be active and ready for telecom use.

According to Kemkomdigi’s evaluation after nearly five months of biometric verification trials for new mobile registrations, the system has proven more effective than identity verification using NIK (National Identity Number) and family card number (NOK).

Data from the Indonesian Cellular Telecommunications Association (ATSI) shows 1.4 million new numbers registered via facial biometrics between January and April 2026, averaging 300,000 monthly.

Users only need to prepare required documents like their ID card and the number to be registered, making the process straightforward.

“Previously, SIM registration required correct NIK and family card numbers. Now, all you need is a smile,” Edwin said.

With rapid verification results, nationwide implementation of biometric mobile number registration should proceed smoothly. The system will take effect across Indonesia from 1 July 2026.