Police warn of SIM cards registered with stolen identities

The Delta State Police Command has issued a warning regarding the fraudulent registration of SIM cards using personal details of unsuspecting Nigerians. These fraudulent registrations could lead to victims facing criminal investigations and potential legal repercussions for offenses committed using the registered SIM cards. Superintendent of Police Edafe Bright urged the public to verify all phone numbers associated with their National Identification Numbers (NIN) at telecommunications service providers and request removal of any unfamiliar lines.

He alleged that some small telecommunications outlet operators deceive customers during SIM registration by collecting personal details under the guise of registration but subsequently using the information to register different numbers. These numbers could later be sold to individuals involved in criminal activities. Bright explained that unsuspecting customers may unknowingly provide sensitive information during the registration process, including their names and other personal details.

He advised that victims should visit official telecommunications service provider offices to check all phone numbers linked to their NINs and request the removal of any unfamiliar lines. Bright also warned that criminals could exploit such numbers to carry out financial fraud, kidnapping, ransom, and other related offenses. He stressed that ignorance of the law is not an excuse and urged Nigerians to take proactive measures to protect their personal information and prevent criminals from exploiting their identities.