By Jane Chanda
Zambia Information and Communications Technology Authority (ZICTA) has deactivated over 176,000 SIM cards linked to fraudulent activities.
ZICTA corporate Affairs manager Hanford Chaaba announced that in a bid to combat the growing menace of scams, ZICTA was working tirelessly to empower consumers to take charge in the fight against scammers.
“We introduced the *101# code to enable consumers to check their SIM card registration details, and later the *707# code to report scam messages. This has led to the deactivation of 144,000 SIM cards between October 2022 and December 2022, and a further 30,000 SIM cards between January and April this year,” Chaaba explained.
He emphasised that fighting scammers required a collective effort, urging consumers to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.
“Scammers don’t target ZICTA or the police, they target the masses. Therefore, the people themselves should be the first line of defense. We have given them the power to report scam numbers, and it’s crucial that they utilise this platform,” he said.
ZICTA’s efforts had resulted in a significant reduction in scam cases, but Chaaba cautioned that complacency was not an option.
“We urge consumers to continue reporting scam numbers. Don’t engage with scammers; simply dial *707# and report their number. Together, we can win the fight against scams,” sais Chaaba.
