Identity Fraud in the Telecom SectorIdentity Fraud in the Telecom Sector

The telecommunications industry is facing growing challenges in combating identity fraud, particularly through the misuse of prepaid SIM cards. This white paper explores the global regulatory landscape mandating Know-Your-Customer (KYC) protocols and SIM card registration to enhance security and prevent criminal exploitation. It presents online identification solutions as a digital alternative to outdated manual verification methods, offering benefits such as increased customer conversion, enhanced compliance, operational efficiency, and fraud prevention. Through international case studies and legal frameworks (including those in the EU, USA, and Kenya) the paper highlights both the progress and the disparities in global adoption of identity verification practices. It also addresses challenges such as the lack of comprehensive data protection in many regions and risks of exclusion for individuals without formal ID.