The Russian Ministry of Digital Development has introduced the Anti-fraud 3.0 bill, which aims to tighten control over SIM cards used in machine-to-machine (M2M) equipment. The proposed regulation requires the registration of devices and their owners within the Unified Identification and Authentication System (ESIA).
The new requirements apply to legal entities and individual entrepreneurs using devices that transmit data via mobile networks, including payment terminals, sensors, and smart home systems. Owners must provide phone numbers, owner details, installation addresses, and IMEI identifiers for eSIM-equipped hardware.
Mobile operators will be responsible for verifying the accuracy of the registered data. The Russian government will establish specific procedures for data submission and technical requirements for M2M equipment connectivity. A transition period is planned for existing devices to ensure compliance.
The initiative is designed to prevent the misuse of corporate M2M SIM cards. Authorities aim to stop the practice of moving SIM cards from dedicated hardware like utility meters or payment terminals into other devices for unauthorized mass calls or spam distribution.
