(ECNS) -- From September 1, China Mobile will restrict SIM card functions for customers who fail to comply with a real-name registration requirement as set by Chinese authorities, Beijing Times reports.
The company requires all off-line outlets that sell SIM cards to have devices for reading second-generation ID cards or verifying identity information on the spot for NFC phone users.
It will also enhance supervision of online SIM card trading. Currently, China Mobile's official website and flagship store on Tmall.com are the only two authorized channels where customers can buy cards online.
In addition, customers can scan a QR code to check whether an outlet is authorized or not.
China Mobile has vowed to tighten management and report illegal vendors of SIM cards to police.
As for old customers, the company will open a variety of channels to facilitate registration of real ID information.
Since May, China Mobile's Guangdong branch has initiated restrictive measures on non-real-name registered customers. Those who fail to register their real ID information within the period stipulated in a reminder text message will only be able to receive calls and text messages on their phones. After this period, non-real-name registered customers will face suspension of all services.
However, Beijing Mobile responded that it would be cautious in adopting such restrictive measures.
