Tightening Control over Mobile Communications, russia Has Introduced “Children’s” Numbers and SIM Card Linking to IMEI

russia has passed two laws aimed at strengthening state surveillance of mobile phone users under the guise of fighting cyber fraud. These measures, developed by the ministry of digital development, effectively turn ordinary SIM cards into a tool for total surveillance, restricting citizens’ freedom to use gadgets and transfer data. Such innovations will not only complicate the daily lives of russians, they will open the door to abuse of power, adding to the atmosphere of mistrust and control in the country.

The first law requires the registration of SIM card changes by linking them to the device’s unique IMEI number. From now on, it will not be possible to simply insert a SIM card into another phone – it will be necessary to re-register it in the contract with the operator, entering the IMEI of the new gadget into a special database.

The second law introduces the concept of a “child” SIM card: parents must notify operators when transferring a number to a minor child, after which it receives special status. Operators are required to apply “special measures” to prevent children from being involved in fraudulent schemes, and data on such subscribers will be transferred to a centralized system. Website and service owners are also required to use this information, which effectively means expanding state monitoring of minors’ online activity.

These laws will not only fail to resolve the problem of fraud, but will also increase citizens’ dependence on state databases, where any mistake or abuse could lead to communication being blocked. In a country where internet censorship and surveillance of the opposition already prevail, these innovations are yet another element of totalitarian control.