In early July, Ernest Nsanzineza, a resident of Rutsiro district, reported that some fraudsters used his wife’s phone number (SIM card) and somehow managed to gain access to the banking application installed on her mobile phone . They were thus able to steal 2.5 million Rwf from her bank account.
One of the fraudsters was arrested and the banks froze his bank accounts. However, the investigation is ongoing.
How can someone use another user's number (SIM swapping)?
According to New Times, some companies do not follow the necessary procedures when a customer applies for registration or SIM card change. Some companies do not ask for ID.
However, it is necessary to request an ID or other relevant document so that not everyone can simply give a name and use someone else's number.
Mobile phone company MTN has announced that it will soon leverage biometric technology to provide greater control and prevent fraudrelated to SIM cards.
"We are working on something and by the end of this year we will implement it.".
Biometric technology
These are methods of identifying a person based on certain characteristics, such as the face, fingerprints, hands, etc.
The company made this decision to enhance security and to make it easier for customers, since the process will be done quickly and easily on the online platform, without the need for the customer's physical presence, IDs, photocopies, etc.
Airtel Rwanda said it also plans to use biometric methods.
“Preventing SIM card fraud is a key concern for Airtel. We are working closely with law enforcement authorities to assist customers who have fallen victim to these crimes as much as possible and to prevent these crimes in the future,” said Gisele Umugwaneza, Airtel Rwanda executive.
The implementation of biometric technology will begin once the green light is given by the Rwanda Utilities Regulatory Authority (RURA).
RURA has created a committee, which has undertaken the study of integrating biometric methods into the system for SIM cards.
Biometric technology continues to evolve and penetrate more and more into our everyday lives.
Today, many governments use biometric data to identify and control citizens.
