Kurdistan Region seizes over 20,000 unauthorized SIM cards to ‘curb cybercrime’

ERBIL — The Kurdistan Region Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed has announced the confiscation of more than 20,000 unauthorized SIM cards as part of an effort to combat cybercrime. This initiative was detailed during a meeting organized by the UK Consulate in Erbil, which aimed to tackle electronic threats against candidates in the forthcoming Kurdistan Region parliamentary elections.

“Security forces, in coordination with the Ministry of Interior and the police, have confiscated over 20,000 illegal SIM cards that were being used for cyber harassment. We have also shut down several locations where these unauthorized SIM cards were being sold,” Ahmed disclosed during the event held on Monday.

The workshop brought together politicians, officials, journalists, civil society organizations, and international experts to discuss protective measures for women during the election process, with a particular focus on shielding female candidates from cyber harassment in the lead-up to the Kurdistan Region parliamentary elections.

In addition to the SIM cards, Ahmed reported the seizure of 110 computers, which were allegedly utilized to harass and intimidate individuals. “These devices were filled with photos, videos, and messages that were used to blackmail or, in some cases, harass men,” he explained, highlighting that the frequency of harassment was notably higher among women.

The Interior Minister further revealed the crucial role of security operations in safeguarding potential victims. “Our security forces have saved several women from being killed after they became victims of this cyber harassment. Often, women face severe consequences due to a single message or inappropriate comment without realizing the dangers involved. Our security forces have successfully protected these women and brought the perpetrators to justice,” Ahmed stated.

Following a decision by the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Council of Ministers in October 2023 to ban the sale and distribution of unauthorized SIM cards, the Ministry of Interior issued a directive in January 2024 to companies and retailers, mandating that all SIM cards be sold legally. This policy aims to curb the misuse of communication devices and prevent cybercrimes.

Unauthorized SIM cards, typically sold without a formal contract or proper registration of the buyer’s identity, have been exploited for nefarious activities such as making threatening calls and messages or creating fake social media accounts. These cards are challenging to trace, making it difficult to hold perpetrators accountable. The ongoing crackdown is part of broader efforts to enhance cybersecurity and ensure the safety and integrity of communications within the region.

Authorized purchases require address details, ID, and fingerprint scans.