Russia Enforces Mobile Service Disconnection for Foreigners Lacking Biometric Registration

Starting Tuesday, foreign nationals in Russia who have not yet provided their biometric information to the authorities will face disconnection of their mobile phone services, according to the Russian Ministry of Digital Development.

Although the disconnection process starts on Tuesday, since January 1, foreign citizens wishing to enter into mobile service contracts have been required to register with the Unified Biometric System (UBS), a government-maintained database for biometric data collection.

Those who obtained their SIM cards before the new year must go to their mobile carrier’s office to register with the UBS and confirm their identity.

Initially, restrictions will target international and long-distance calls, subsequently slowing down internet speeds. After 30 days, all services will be completely terminated for individuals who have not registered.

Foreign nationals are also required to present a SNILS, which is similar to a U.S. Social Security number, register on the Gosuslugi public services website, and submit an International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number.

According to the regulations, one person may register a maximum of 10 SIM cards.

The Digital Development Ministry indicated that these measures are aimed at curbing fraudulent activities and the use of unregistered SIM cards.

As per official statistics from the ministry, over 2 million foreign citizens have already registered with the UBS and signed contracts with telecommunications providers under the new rules.

Additionally, the ministry mentioned that phone numbers that remain inactive for more than three months will be deactivated.