Egypt’s NTRA addresses reports of identity fraud with mobile IDs
The National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) in Egypt issued a statement on Friday clarifying concerns raised about mobile phone lines registered in the names of some citizens without their knowledge, following a shocking court ruling. Over the past few days, social media has been abuzz with posts from people who discovered phone numbers registered under … The post Egypt’s NTRA…
The National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) in Egypt addressed recent reports of identity fraud involving mobile IDs on Friday. Citizens have been alarmed to discover phone numbers registered under their IDs without their knowledge or consent. The controversy began when university student Amr Emara learned he had been issued a 25-year in absentia sentence for drug trafficking, following the discovery of a mobile number linked to his identity in a case investigation.
Emara explained that he had registered the phone line at a friend's sister's request to use it for activating certain services, but it was later transferred to someone else without his consent.
The NTRA clarified that if any citizen encounters a mobile line registered in their name that they did not register, they have the right to file a complaint with the authority. The agency will then investigate the validity of the registration process and the mobile company's adherence to regulations, taking necessary actions if any violations are found.
The NTRA emphasized that merely registering a phone line under someone's name does not automatically make them legally responsible for actions taken using that line, provided they can prove ownership or control over the line.
The authority stressed that legal responsibility is determined based on the facts, evidence, and investigation results, without any prejudice to the jurisdiction of investigative and judicial authorities. The NTRA reiterated its commitment to enhancing the regulations governing mobile phone line registration and activation, increasing audits and inspections of mobile operators, and imposing penalties for violations.
They also highlighted the importance of biometric verification systems in verifying user identities, improving data accuracy, and strengthening the security of telecommunications services.
The NTRA urged citizens to periodically check registered numbers through the "My NTRA" application and immediately report any unfamiliar lines. The authority affirmed its dedication to protecting user rights and maintaining the integrity of the telecommunications system.
Written by urgent.news from Egypt Independent's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
