Easy way to cancel extra SIM: BTRC's instructions and importance

 Easy way to cancel extra SIM: BTRC's instructions and importance

 Easy way to cancel extra SIM: BTRC's instructions and importance

The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has recently issued an important directive, which is of great importance to the country's mobile phone users. According to this directive, a maximum of 10 SIM cards can be registered using a National Identity Card (NID). If someone has more than this number of SIMs registered in their name, they will have to de-register (cancel registration) the additional SIMs or change the ownership of the SIM by October 30, 2025. Failure to comply with this directive may result in legal complications for customers. The main objective of this move by BTRC is to prevent illegal SIM use, reduce cybercrime and ensure national security.

In this article, we will discuss in detail how you can cancel an extra SIM, why it is important, and what you need to do in this process.

Why is it important to cancel an extra SIM?

According to BTRC guidelines, if more than 10 SIMs are registered with a single NID, it will be considered illegal. Using illegal SIMs can lead to various problems, such as:

• Cybercrime Risk: Using an extra SIM can lead to fraud, forgery, or cybercrime. If a SIM is used without your knowledge, you could get into legal trouble.

• National Security: Criminal activities can be carried out using illegal SIMs, which is a threat to the security of the country.

• Security of personal information: Having an unnecessary SIM linked to your NID increases the risk of misuse of your personal information.

By following these instructions from BTRC, you can keep yourself and the country safe from such risks.

How many SIMs are registered in your name?

First, you need to know how many SIMs are registered with your National Identity Card. To find out, follow the steps below:

1. **Dial *16001#**: Dial this code from your mobile phone.

2. Return message: You will receive a return message in a few moments, containing a list of all the mobile numbers registered with your NID.

3. Check the list: Check the numbers on the list. If any numbers are not being used by you, or you have unnecessary or old SIMs, take steps to cancel them.

How to cancel an additional SIM?

The process of canceling an extra or unnecessary SIM is very simple. The step-by-step process is described below:

Step 1: Contact your SIM operator

• Make sure which operator (e.g. Grameenphone, Robi, Banglalink, Teletalk, etc.) you want to cancel the SIM.

• Call the operator's helpline number. For example:

• Grameenphone: 121

• Sun: 123

• Banglalink: 121

• Teletalk: 121

• Have your National Identity Card (NID) number and other necessary information handy when calling the helpline.

Step 2: Verify information

• The helpline representative will verify your NID number and other information to ensure that you are the real owner of the SIM.

• Once the verification process is complete, specify the SIM you want to cancel.

Step 3: Request SIM cancellation

• Request the operator to cancel the SIM. This is usually done immediately or within a few business days.

• In some cases, the operator may ask you to visit their nearest customer service center. In that case, take a photocopy of your NID and other necessary documents.

Step 4: Confirmation

• Once the SIM cancellation process is complete, you will receive a confirmation message confirming that the SIM is no longer associated with your NID.

What to do if you want to change ownership?

If you want to transfer ownership to someone else's name without canceling the additional SIM, follow the steps below:

• Go to the nearest operator's customer service center.
• Take a photocopy of your NID and the new owner's NID with you.
• Fill out the ownership transfer form and pay the required fees (if any).
• Once the process is complete, the SIM will be registered in the name of the new owner.

Some important tips

• Take action in time.: Cancel or change ownership of excess SIMs by October 30, 2025. Fines or legal action may be taken for using an invalid SIM after the specified time.

• Check regularly.: Check the list of SIMs registered in your name by dialing *16001# from time to time. This will help you quickly detect any unknown SIMs registered.

• Ensure safety: Do not share your NID information with anyone. If someone registers a SIM using your NID, contact the operator immediately.

This directive from BTRC is an important step for mobile phone users in Bangladesh. By canceling or changing ownership of excess SIMs, you can protect yourself from legal troubles and contribute to cyber security. By following the steps mentioned above, easily cancel your unnecessary SIMs and complete the process within the stipulated time. Your awareness and responsible action will help make this initiative a success.

Remember: Your information, your responsibility. Take action while you have time, stay safe!