Recalling unused SIM cards is a measure that network operators implement to effectively manage digital resources, especially mobile numbers. Phone numbers are a limited resource, and to ensure enough numbers for new users, network operators must recall assigned numbers that have not been used for a long time.
The recovery of expired prepaid mobile subscriber numbers is also regulated by the Ministry of Information and Communications, and has been implemented by network operators with specific procedures for many years, aiming not only to optimize the efficiency of exploiting the number warehouse but also to limit the situation of junk SIM cards.
How long does it take for a SIM card to be revoked if it is not used?
According to VinaPhone regulations, after the prepaid subscription account expires, the subscription will be locked in one direction, and 10 days later, it will be locked in both directions (before locking in one direction, the system will send many notification messages).
The time the network operator keeps the subscriber's number on the system after the subscriber has been locked in both directions is 30 days. After this time, the subscriber's number will be kept by VinaPhone for another 15 days to consider reissuing if the customer continues to need to use it. After this time, the subscriber's 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 can be revoked by the network operator.
For Viettel prepaid SIMs, the period of no transactions (recharge, successful calls or calls received) leading to 2-way lock is usually 60 days. Within 10 days from the date the SIM is 2-way locked, if the SIM still does not generate any charges, the network operator will return the SIM to the warehouse.
For Viettel's Economy package, after the expiration date, the SIM will be locked in one direction for 10 days. If during that period, the user does not top up, the SIM will be locked in both directions. After 30 days from the date the SIM is locked in both directions, if the user still does not top up and does not incur any fees, the SIM will be returned to the warehouse.
For MobiFone prepaid SIMs, when the usage period expires, if the user does not top up or perform one of the transactions that generate fees, outgoing calls will be blocked for 10 days. When the one-way blocking period expires and the user still does not top up, the subscriber will also be blocked for incoming calls. Within 30 days of keeping the number from the time the SIM is blocked in both directions, if the user still does not top up to unblock, the network will return the SIM to the system.
Some other cases of SIM revocation
According to the regulations of the Ministry of Information and Communications, all mobile subscribers must register their personal information. If they do not register correctly, provide false or incomplete information, the subscriber's SIM card may be locked, and the phone number will be revoked after a period of time.
Subscribers who use their SIM cards to commit fraud, spread false information or otherwise violate the law may also be prosecuted. The network operator will cooperate with the authorities in these cases. Violating subscribers will have their SIM cards locked and their phone numbers revoked, and may even face legal action.
In addition, network operators often require users to periodically update personal information such as address, new ID card/CCCD number, portrait photo... This is to ensure that user information is always accurate and reflects the current status. If the subscriber does not update information as requested, the SIM may be locked, leading to the phone number being revoked after a period of time.
How to check sim usage time
To ensure that your SIM card is not revoked unintentionally, you can do a few simple things to check the SIM card's operating status:
1. Check transaction history: For services such as outgoing calls and sent messages, you can easily check using the carrier's application or call center service.
2. Contact the operator: Call the network operator's customer service center to ask about the status and expiration date of the SIM.
3. Use the carrier's app: Most carriers have a customer support app where you can check detailed information about your sim.
How to avoid having your SIM card revoked
To avoid having your SIM card revoked, you should keep it active in the following ways:
Make calls or send messages periodically: Make calls or send messages occasionally to keep your SIM active.
Top up scratch cards: Top up cards are also considered an activity to maintain the SIM and help prolong the usage time.
Sign up for a data package: If you use mobile internet, sign up for data packages to use regularly, ensuring your SIM is always active.
Can a revoked SIM be restored?
In many cases, after a SIM card is revoked, the owner can ask the carrier to restore the phone number. However, this depends on whether the number has already been reused. If the phone number is still in reserve, you can restore it, but there will be a fee.
Source
Comment (0)