Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-Related Information Act, 2002 (Act 70 of 2002)Register your cellphone number now! |
RICA is the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-Related Information Act.
RICA is the new law from the South African Government that requires everyone to register all cell phone numbers from 1 July 2009.
RICA is a legal requirement from Government and all customers with cell phone numbers on cellular networks in SA must comply with the law.
You can help to make South Africa a safer place, as this law aims to help law enforcement agencies to identify the users of cell phone numbers and track criminals using cell phones for illegal activities.
All contract and prepaid cell phone numbers and data SIM cards must be registered:
New cellphone numbers - in order to have your number activated.
Existing cellphone numbers - to ensure that your number does not get disconnected and your number lost.
You can register at most stores where you can buy a starter pack. For more information, contact your cellular network's Customer Care Centre or visit their website.
You are required to register the following information :
| • | Cell phone number |
| • | Full names and surname |
| • | ID number or passport number. You will need to show one of the following documents as proof of identity : |
| ➢ | green barcoded ID document |
| ➢ | ID card |
| ➢ | temporary ID certificate, or |
| ➢ | passport |
| • | One physical address. You will need to show any document that includes your name and residential address such as a bank statement, municipal rates, cell phone or retail account (not older than three (3) months), existing lease, rental or credit agreement, insurance policy, current TV or motor vehicle licence. |
| • | If you live in an informal settlement you can provide a letter and/or affidavit from a school, church or retail store where you receive your post (this letter must be on an official letterhead or have the stamp of the school, church or retail store) |
| • | Registration must be done in person to confirm your identity. |
RICA is absolutely free!
You must register for RICA from 1 July 2009.
From this date onwards, all new cell phone numbers will have to be registered to be activated on a cellular network in South Africa.
Customers with existing cell phone numbers that are already active on a South African cellular network will have 18 months from the effective date.
Existing cell phone numbers that are not registered at the end of this period will be disconnected from the cellular network until they are registered.
All information will be kept in a secure database by your cellular network and will be confidential.
Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-Related Information Act