Egypt’s National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority has referred the country’s four mobile network operators to the Public Prosecution following an investigation into mobile lines registered using citizens’ personal data without their knowledge or consent.
NTRA Investigation Triggers Prosecutor Referral
The regulatory action was announced after the NTRA examined and inspected a series of user complaints filed over a two-day period. According to the authority, the inspection process yielded documentary evidence of legal and regulatory violations. The findings were compiled in continuous cooperation with the Public Prosecution.
Following meetings with executives from the four carriers, the regulator instituted a package of mandatory measures designed to overhaul the mobile line registration system, verify the identities of actual possessors, and prevent unauthorized registrations.
Immediate Suspension of New Line Sales
Under the emergency directives, mobile network operators must immediately suspend the sale and activation of any new lines through their systems to both private sector and government entities.
The regulator has also ordered mobile companies to dispatch text messages to all active lines currently registered on their networks. These notifications instruct current holders to visit company branches in person to sign new contracts under the name of the actual possessor. The NTRA warned that failure to complete the updated contracting procedures within a designated timeframe will result in the permanent cancellation of the line.
Biometric Verification Rollout Mandated
Additionally, the NTRA instructed operators to expedite the deployment of biometric verification mechanisms through their electronic applications. This upgrade is intended to allow more secure identity checks and grant citizens the ability to track and manage any mobile lines registered under their names.
Zero Tolerance Warning Issued to Carriers
The regulatory body stated that it maintains zero tolerance for breaches of the rules governing line sales, registrations, and activations. It cautioned that non-compliant operators will face further legal and administrative penalties, including prolonged bans on new line sales and additional referrals to the Public Prosecution.
The enforcement actions form part of the authority’s broader mandate to protect telecommunications users, safeguard personal data, and eliminate practices that circumvent established protocols. The regulator confirmed that it is closely monitoring the implementation of the new directives to ensure institutional compliance and the integrity of subscriber databases.
