• A new law in the Philippines requires mobile phone users to provide a photo and other personal details when buying a new SIM card. This was aimed at combating rampant text messaging scams.

  • However, the telecom regulator has reported a “sharp increase” in scam text messages since the law took effect.

  • To demonstrate how easy it is to get past the automated vetting systems, a police officer used an ID card with a photo of a monkey to successfully activate various SIM cards.

  • This has left lawmakers and regulators red-faced, as it shows that the new law has not been effective in stopping scammers.

  • slazer2au@lemmy.world
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    1 year ago

    Why law makers and regulators? Surely the carrier should be asked why their ID system is horseshit.