The government of Sri Lanka has raised serious national security concerns after revealing that nearly 900,000 mobile SIM cards currently in use cannot be linked to verified individuals, a gap authorities say is being exploited for criminal activity. The disclosure has triggered plans for tighter telecommunications regulations and a nationwide data verification drive.
Deputy Minister of Digital Economy Eranga Weeraratne made the announcement during a parliamentary session, stating that 897,802 SIM cards in the system lack proper identity registration. He said the issue came to light amid discussions on legislative amendments related to judicial reforms and laws governing dangerous drugs, underscoring the link between anonymous communications and organized crime.
According to the Deputy Minister, an additional 245,811 SIM cards issued under business registrations are also being misused, with some allegedly connected to large-scale robberies and other unlawful operations. Law enforcement agencies require accurate subscriber data to track suspects and prevent offenses, but the absence of verified information has created investigative blind spots that criminals exploit.
The government is now introducing a strengthened SIM Card Regulation framework to address weaknesses in rules first implemented in 2019. The updated system aims to ensure that all mobile connections are properly registered and traceable, enabling police to access essential data when investigating crimes. Authorities say the move is not intended to burden ordinary users, noting that the vast majority of citizens already comply with registration requirements.
Officials have warned that SIM cards that remain unverified will be deactivated if subscriber information is not submitted, describing the measure as essential to curbing crime and improving national security. The statement, delivered before Parliament of Sri Lanka, comes amid political debate, with the government accusing critics of mischaracterizing the initiative while maintaining that accurate data collection is the only effective way to close the loophole enabling anonymous criminal communication.
