Fraud-Fighting Phone Registry Coming Soon
MACRA said the Tchingira campaign continues to receive positive feedback from consumers of ICT services in the districts the team has visited.
MZUZU, Malawi - As one way of mitigating mobile fraud among mobile phone users in the country, the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (MACRA) is running a campaign called Tchingira which aims at raising awareness about a new system the regulator plans to implement, writes Susan Moyo.
MACRA will soon roll out the Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR), which will empower mobile phone owners to block stolen devices, according to Tchingira campaign coordinator Mphatso Chaluluka.
He spoke Saturday during a roadshow at Mzuzu Main Market.
"There are some people who benefit from this illicit behavior, but with the Central Equipment Identity Register this malpractice will stop," Chaluluka said.
"The system has been effective in other countries and we hope here too some of the challenges mobile phone users face will be alleviated."
The CEIR will help deal with rampant mobile phone theft, mobile money fraud and counterfeit devices, Chaluluka explained.
MACRA said the Tchingira campaign continues to receive positive feedback from consumers of ICT services in the districts the team has visited.
The regulator did not provide a specific timeline for when the registry would launch.
"Benefits outweigh risks," Chaluluka said. "This will empower everyday Malawians."