7 held over illegal sale of SIM cards

MANILA, Philippines — The police Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) yesterday warned the public against the illegal sale of registered subscriber identity module or SIM cards following the arrest of seven people in Metro Manila and Rizal.

ACG director Maj. Gen. Ronnie Francis Cariaga reminded the public that the illegal sale of SIM cards online is punishable under Republic Act 11934 or the SIM Registration Law.

“To those selling SIM cards registered in their names and verified accounts linked to payment service providers, be aware that these may be used by cybercriminals in scams. You could be held liable if caught,” Cariaga said.

Police apprehended seven people in entrapment operations in Valenzuela, Manila, Quezon City and Cainta, Rizal from Nov. 3 to Nov. 5.

Cariaga said they have intensified cyber patrols and investigation to go after people illegally selling SIM cards.

The suspects – three women and four men – yielded about 400 registered SIM cards.

Cariaga said the suspects were selling SIM cards at prices ranging from P14 to P3,500.

The price is higher for SIM cards linked to verified accounts with payment service providers, he said.

Some of the suspects have been involved in the illegal scheme for about one year, according to police.

The suspects are facing complaints for violating the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act and the Cybercrime Prevention Law.

Cariaga urged people with information about the illegal sale of SIM cards to report to police hotlines and social media platforms.