Jakarta, ThedailyID — Indonesia will require facial verification for all new SIM card registrations starting July 1, 2026, as the government strengthens efforts to combat identity fraud and the misuse of mobile phone numbers.
The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) announced the policy as part of a broader initiative to improve digital security and ensure SIM cards are registered using valid identities.
Under the new regulation, customers purchasing a new prepaid SIM card must complete a facial verification process alongside identity verification. The system will match users’ facial data with their registered population data before activating the SIM card.
The government expects the new measure to reduce the use of fake identities, prevent cybercrime, and curb online fraud involving anonymously registered phone numbers.
Officials said facial verification will only apply to new SIM card registrations. Existing mobile subscribers will not need to repeat the registration process unless required under future regulations.
Komdigi also stated that telecommunications operators must prepare the necessary infrastructure before the policy takes effect. Providers will work with government systems to verify customer identities during registration.
Authorities believe stronger identity verification will create a safer digital ecosystem while improving accountability in mobile communications.
The ministry urged the public to prepare valid identity documents when registering new SIM cards after the regulation comes into force on July 1, 2026.
