Will phone SIM cards be blocked after April 15, 2026, for users with 9-digit ID cards?
I've been using a phone number registered with my 9-digit ID card for a long time. Recently, I heard that anyone using an old ID card to register a SIM card will have their phone blocked if they don't get biometric verification. I'm elderly and not tech-savvy, so what should I do?
Issues of concern to Mr. Nguyen Van T. (Truong Vinh Ward, Nghe An Province)
Reply:The issue you raised is specifically addressed in Circular 08/2026/TT-BKHCN of the Ministry of Science and Technology. You can rest assured that the implementation roadmap is very clearly designed to support the people, especially the elderly.
Specifically, according to Clause 3, Article 10 of this Circular, mobile subscribers currently using a 9-digit ID card for registration and information verification will be required to perform the following two tasks:
- Update subscriber information: Convert from 9-digit ID card number to Personal Identification Number (chip-embedded Citizen Identification Card).
- Added biometric authentication: Capture facial images to synchronize with the database.
1. Implementation roadmap and key timelines
From the moment he confirms he is using that subscriber number through the identification application, the telecommunications company is responsible for coordinating with him to complete the update within 60 days. If the verification is not completed within this timeframe, the network provider will proceed as follows:
- Phase 1: Suspension of outbound telecommunication services (Unable to make calls or send SMS messages to others).
- Phase 2: If the service is still not complied with after being blocked in one direction, the network provider has the right to completely stop providing the service (blocking in both directions) according to the prescribed schedule.
2. The most convenient method for the people to implement.
To facilitate the process as much as possible, the law stipulates three methods of implementation (according to Article 4 of Circular 08):
- In person (Most suitable for the elderly): He only needs to bring his phone and chip-embedded ID card to the nearest mobile network provider's service point. There, staff will directly assist him in collecting facial photos and standardizing data in just a few minutes.
- Online: Via electronic identification application or the official application of the network provider (if you have children or grandchildren to assist you at home).
- Mobile support: In some cases, telecommunications companies may organize staff to provide direct support at the facility.
Although the new regulations will only take effect on April 15, 2026, you should proactively check your information by sending a text message with the text "TTTB" to 1414. If you still have your old ID card, you should update to the chip-based citizen identification card as soon as possible to avoid system overload or sudden communication disruptions close to the deadline.
