The recall of unused SIM cards is a measure implemented by mobile network operators to effectively manage number resources, especially mobile phone numbers. Phone numbers are a limited resource, and to ensure sufficient numbers for new users, network operators must reclaim numbers that have been issued but not used for a long time.
The Ministry of Information and Communications has also regulated the recall of expired prepaid mobile phone numbers, and mobile network operators have been implementing this process with specific procedures for many years. This aims not only to optimize the utilization of the number pool but also to limit the proliferation of unregistered SIM cards.
How long can an unused SIM card be deactivated?
According to VinaPhone's regulations, after a prepaid subscriber's account expires, the subscriber will be blocked for outgoing calls, and 10 days later, it will be blocked for both incoming and outgoing calls (the system will send multiple notification messages before blocking both incoming and outgoing calls).
After a subscriber's number has been blocked in both directions, the network operator retains the number on their system for 30 days. After this period, VinaPhone will retain the number for another 15 days for consideration of re-issuance if the customer continues to need to use it. After this period, the number will be reused according to regulations.
Not everyone knows that if a SIM card is not used for a certain period of time, it may be reclaimed by the network provider.
For Viettel prepaid SIM cards, the period of inactivity (no successful top-ups, calls, or receiving calls) leading to the SIM being blocked is typically 60 days. Within 10 days of the SIM being blocked, if there are still no charges incurred, the network provider will reclaim the SIM and return it to its inventory.
For Viettel's Economy plan, after the expiration date, the SIM card will be blocked for outgoing calls for 10 days. If the user does not top up within that time, the SIM card will be blocked for both incoming and outgoing calls. After 30 days from the date the SIM card is blocked for both incoming and outgoing calls, if the user still does not top up and no charges are incurred, the SIM card will be returned to the warehouse.
For MobiFone prepaid SIM cards, upon expiration, if the user does not top up or make any transaction that incurs charges, outgoing calls will be blocked for 10 days. If the user still does not top up after the one-way blocking period expires, incoming calls will also be blocked. Within 30 days of the SIM being blocked in both directions, if the user still does not top up to unblock it, the network provider will reclaim the SIM card.
Other cases of SIM card revocation
According to regulations from the Ministry of Information and Communications, all mobile subscribers must register their personal information accurately. Failure to register correctly, providing false or incomplete information, may result in the SIM card being blocked, and the phone number being revoked after a period of time.
Subscribers who use SIM cards for fraud, spreading false information, or violating the law may also be prosecuted. The network operator will cooperate with authorities in these cases. Violating subscribers will have their SIM cards blocked and phone numbers revoked, and may even face legal penalties.
In addition, mobile network operators often require users to periodically update their personal information such as address, new ID card/citizen identification number, portrait photo, etc. This is to ensure that users' information is always accurate and reflects their current status. If subscribers do not update their information as required, the SIM card may be blocked, leading to the phone number being revoked after a period of time.
How to check your SIM card usage time
To ensure your SIM card isn't unexpectedly deactivated, you can perform a few simple steps to check its active status:
1. Check transaction history: For services like outgoing calls and outgoing messages, you can easily check this using your carrier's app or a call center service.
2. Contact the call center: Call the network provider's customer service hotline to inquire about the status and expiration date of your SIM card.
3. Use the carrier's app: Most carriers have customer support apps where you can check detailed information about your SIM card.
How to avoid having your SIM card revoked?
To avoid having your SIM card deactivated, you should keep it active by following these steps:
Make regular calls or send messages: Occasionally make calls or send messages to keep your SIM card active.
Recharging with a scratch card: Recharging with a scratch card is also considered an activity to maintain the SIM card and help extend its usage time.
Subscribe to a data plan: If you use mobile internet, subscribe to data plans to ensure regular usage and keep your SIM card active.
Can a revoked SIM card be recovered?
In many cases, after a SIM card is deactivated, the owner can request the network provider to restore the phone number. However, this depends on whether the number has already been reused by someone else. If the phone number is still in the reserve, you can restore it, but you will have to pay a certain fee.
Source
Comment (0)