If you live in South Africa and have not read or heard about RICA. Well, the deadline for all mobile phone users in South Africa to be RICA’d is coming up, which is 30 June 2011.
The first question on everybody’s mind is : “Why RICA ?”
Basically it is intended :
- to control cellular phone usage.
- curb organised crime
- to allow the law enforcement agents to intercept cellular phone communications if there is reasonable suspicion of crime.
- require cellular operators to keep detailed information of all their clients, as well as cellphones and SIM cards.
Here is the press release from the Department of Communication of South Africa(13 June 2011):
The Department of Communications appeals to all South African citizens to register their SIM cards whether they are cellular, data or other SIM cards used for mobile devices.
The Regulation of Interception of Communications Act (RICA) provides for the lawful interception of communications, such as voice and data conversations between persons including phone calls, emails and postal services. This Act is in the interest of the individual’s right to privacy and can only be done after authorisation by a judge who is specially designated to carry out this role or function. RICA is applicable to both prepaid and contract subscribers and it is obligatory for all cell phone and other data users to comply.
The Department of Communications calls for all SIM card users to go to their mobile service providers with their proof of residence and Identity Documents (IDs) before or on 30 June 2011 for registration.
“Failure to comply with the deadline will result in SIMs being locked. Those who have not registered will not be able to make or receive calls and will not be able to send SMSes or use data,” states the Deputy Minister of Communications, Mr Obed Bapela.
So if you are not RICA’d yet, do so by visiting your nearest cellular outlet and providing them with your ID document and proof of residence.