Hong Kong proposes mandatory registration of all new mobile phone numbers to tackle organised crime

Mobile phone users required to register new numbers under real identities in proposed overhaul of SIM-card rules. Ministers say reform is needed to tackle serious and organised crime. — SCMP

Anyone seeking to register a new mobile phone number in Hong Kong will have to provide their real name and personal details under proposals for compulsory SIM-card registration in the city, with officials blaming criminals for exploiting the current system.

Mandatory registration could require users to provide their full name, a copy of their identity document and date of birth, the government suggested on Friday as it launched a one-month public consultation on the proposals.