Moldova strengthens cyber-defense by regulating prepaid SIM market
The Moldovan Ministry of Internal Affairs (MAI) has launched a significant legislative initiative to mandate identity registration for all prepaid SIM card users. This move aims to eliminate anonymity in mobile communications to deter criminal activities.
Under the proposed framework, consumers will be required to present a national ID or passport when purchasing a SIM card. Mobile operators will then record this data, enabling authorities to rapidly identify individuals involved in fraud, threats, or cyber-offenses.
The draft law was published on the government portal particip.gov.md on February 3, 2026, with public consultations concluding on February 16. The document is currently undergoing internal review before being submitted to the Government and Parliament for final approval.
The initiative includes a strategic two-year transition period for full implementation. To support this shift, the Ministry plans to increase its cybercrime unit from 56 specialized officers in 2024 to 76 by the end of this year.
Authorities emphasized that all personal data will be strictly protected under existing privacy legislation. Information will only be accessible to law enforcement agencies during authorized criminal investigations.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
