The Kenyan telecommunications industry has taken a significant step toward improving security and reducing fraud by introducing a service that allows users to check the phone numbers registered under their national ID. This innovation helps users easily track how many SIM cards are linked to their ID and provides notifications whenever a new SIM card is registered under their name. This service, available across major telecom providers like Safaricom, Airtel, and Telkom, is part of the broader effort to enhance transparency and minimize cases of identity fraud. Here’s how you can utilize this feature to safeguard your identity.
Why It’s Important to Know Numbers Registered With Your ID
In the digital era, where phone numbers are often linked to sensitive accounts like mobile money wallets (e.g., M-PESA) and other personal services, unauthorized numbers registered with your ID pose a significant risk. Criminals often exploit stolen IDs to register numbers used for illegal activities such as fraud, identity theft, and impersonation. These issues have become prevalent in Kenya, where mobile-based financial services are a major part of everyday transactions.
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) and telecommunication companies are working together to ensure compliance with SIM card registration regulations and protect consumers. Now, you can easily monitor and take control of the numbers associated with your national identification.
How To Check Safaricom Numbers Registered With Your ID
Safaricom, Kenya’s largest telecom provider, has introduced a user-friendly way to monitor numbers registered to your ID. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Dial *106# from your Safaricom line.
- From the menu, select Option 1: Check my numbers.
- A list of phone numbers registered under your ID will be displayed, showing details such as:
- 0700XXX111
- 0711XXX000
- If you encounter numbers that you don’t recognize, you can take immediate action:
- Dial *106#.
- Select Option 2: Report an unknown number.
- Choose the number you want to report.
- Confirm your selection.
If you mistakenly report a number that belongs to you, you can quickly rectify it:
- Return to the USSD menu and select Option 4: Cancel a reported number. You will be prompted to confirm the cancellation of the report.
This feature helps users manage the SIM cards linked to their identity, minimizing the risks associated with unauthorized SIM card registrations.
How To Check Airtel Numbers Registered With Your ID
Airtel Kenya, another major player in the market, offers a similar service that allows users to check the numbers registered with their identification document. Here’s how to go about it:
- Dial *106# from your Airtel line.
- Select Option 3: Numbers registered with my ID.
- Choose the type of ID you used for SIM registration (National ID, Passport, etc.).
- Enter your ID number.
- A message will be sent listing all the Airtel numbers registered to your ID, for example:
- 0789XXX001
- 0751XXX005
This USSD code also provides additional services like checking your SIM registration status, accessing self-registration options, and even finding the nearest Airtel shop if you need further assistance.
Importance of Compliance with SIM Registration Laws
Kenya’s government, through the Communications Authority, has enforced strict SIM card registration laws to ensure that each number is correctly associated with a valid ID. These measures have been introduced to combat criminal activities that often rely on anonymous or improperly registered phone numbers. By using the *106# USSD service, telecom users can verify that all their phone numbers are properly registered, update registration information, and report suspicious numbers.
What To Do if a Number Isn’t Registered in Your Name
If you discover that a number you are using is not registered under your ID, or if there is a mismatch in registration details, you should visit the nearest service center of your provider (e.g., Safaricom, Airtel, or Telkom) to update your registration details. Having accurate information ensures compliance with regulations and protects your identity from misuse.
Fraud Awareness and Security Measures
Alongside the *106# service, Safaricom’s Jichanue fraud-awareness initiative provides valuable tips on avoiding SIM swap fraud and mobile money scams. This initiative educates customers on identifying potential threats and taking preventive measures to protect their mobile accounts.
With identity theft and fraud cases on the rise, being proactive in managing the numbers registered with your ID is crucial. By leveraging the tools provided by telecom operators, you can safeguard your identity, minimize risks, and ensure compliance with government regulations.
Stay informed, stay secure.
