N
The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has again re-echoed the need for Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to directly sensitise their Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards registration agents and dealers to the dangers of transacting in the sale of pre-registered SIM cards.
Mr. Yomi Arowosafe, Controller, Ibadan Zonal Office of the Commission, who made the call during the second quarter routine meeting with representatives of MNOs held at the zonal office in Ibadan, said the Commission has been doing a lot in the area of sensitisation and enforcement towards curbing the menace of pre-registered SIM cards.
He emphasised the importance and necessity for MNOs and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to join hands with the Commission in putting an end to the sale and use of pre-registered SIM cards.
"In addition to what the Commission has been doing regarding sensitisation and enforcement, Operators must increase efforts at sensitising their agents/dealers to the danger and criminality of engaging in pre-registered SIM cards," he said. Arowosafe stated that, directly linked to the issue of pre-registered SIM cards is the obligation of service providers to protect telecom consumers’ information and then to treat the consumers well at all times.
He encouraged the customer service representatives of MNOs present at the meeting to protect consumers' personal information in their possession as a key to service excellence and urged them to equally re-strategise to eradicate the misconceptions created by unprofessional customer service agents, who have been found wanting overtime on cases of fraud in their capacity as customer service agent.
Arowosafe, however, commended the operators’ efforts regarding quicker resolution of complaints lodged by telecoms consumer, increased implementation of the Do-Not-Disturb (DND) 2442 Short code, which empowers consumers to control the kind unsolicited text messages they receive as well as on the implementation of guidelines on SIM Swap.He also applauded the MNOs for their collaboration and prompt and regular attendance during the Commission-sponsored weekly radio programme on Fresh 105.9 FM Ibadan which, he said, has helped to bridge the hitherto existing communication and access gap between the subscribers and the operators and the regulators in the urban, semi-urban, and rural communities in the South-West region of the country.