Moldova introduces identification for purchasing SIM cards: what will change

The Minister of Internal Affairs of Moldova, Daniela Misail-Nichitin, stated that SIM cards for mobile phones in the country can now only be obtained upon presentation of an identification document. This decision was made in cooperation with the police and the information technology service to prevent crime.

'We are working on a project that involves selling SIM cards only with personal documents and storing data for five years. This is aimed at preventing crimes, including in the online environment,' Daniela Misail-Nichitin noted.

The HaiTV application and website have also been blocked in Moldova due to broadcasting prohibited Russian and Belarusian channels. Government spokesperson Daniel Vode noted that this decision was made following requests from the Radio and Television Council.

Blocking of HaiTV in Moldova

Vode explained: 'State institutions are taking steps to protect national interests. There is a technical capability for collecting and storing data that allows for an effective response to such violations.' He also emphasized the need for joint actions and professionalism to combat such situations.

In Moldova, there are restrictions on the sale of SIM cards only with personal documents to combat crime. The broadcast of prohibited channels on HaiTV in the country has also been blocked. The government has stated the necessity of taking measures to protect national interests.