Thousands of prepaid mobile users in Cyprus could lose their phone numbers this autumn, as the country moves to eliminate anonymous prepaid mobile use under a new law set to take effect on 3 November.
The legislation will require all mobile service providers to identify and verify prepaid SIM card holders. Those who fail to register by the deadline will have their numbers deactivated and lose access to mobile services.
According to Marinos Mousiouttas, head of the Parliamentary Committee on Transport, implementation so far has been sluggish. Cyta has verified just 15% of its prepaid customer base, while other telecom providers report progress between 0% and 7%.
There are currently 417,631 active prepaid SIM cards in Cyprus. These are widely used by young people, tourists, foreign workers, asylum seekers, and even surveillance systems. The new law is designed to enhance public safety by curbing anonymous prepaid mobile use and reducing untraceable communication.
Authorities are urging users to complete the identification process promptly to avoid service disruptions.
Also read: 18th post-programme surveillance review: Meetings begin
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel.
