Mexico Mobile Registration Deadlines and Regulations

The Mexican government has extended the deadline for registering mobile phone lines, with the Comisión Reguladora de Telecomunicaciones (CRT) emphasizing that unregistered devices could face restrictions on banking apps and other services. The move comes as 83 million lines remain unregistered ahead of the original June 23 deadline, according to *El Economista*.

The CRT, which oversees telecommunications regulation, announced the extension on June 22, citing logistical challenges and public concerns. “The extension aims to ensure compliance while protecting users from abrupt service disruptions,” a CRT spokesperson stated, though no specific new deadline was provided.

The registration requirement, mandated by a 2022 law, ties mobile numbers to the National Population Registry (CURP) to combat fraud and illegal activities. However, the process has sparked controversy, particularly over the “prueba de vida” (life verification) step, which requires users to confirm their identity through biometric data or in-person visits.

Banks such as Banco Azteca and Banorte have warned that customers with unregistered lines may lose access to mobile banking features, including fund transfers and account management. “The risk is significant for users who rely on digital services,” said a *El Financiero* report, citing internal communications from financial institutions.

The CRT’s initiative follows a broader effort to curb the use of platforms like WhatsApp in extortion schemes. *La Jornada* reported that the commission is working with telecom providers to block unregistered numbers from accessing messaging services, a measure critics argue could disproportionately affect low-income users.

As of June 23, 83 million mobile lines—nearly 60% of the country’s total—remain unregistered, according to *El Economista*. The figure includes both prepaid and contract-based services, with rural areas showing the lowest compliance rates.

The “prueba de vida” requirement has drawn criticism for its complexity. *El Informador* highlighted that some users face delays of up to two weeks to complete the process, while others lack access to verification centers. “This is not just a technical issue—it’s a social one,” said María López, a digital rights advocate quoted in the report.

The CRT has not yet provided a timeline for enforcing restrictions on unregistered devices, but banks have begun preparing for potential disruptions. A *Reuters* analysis of bank filings showed that institutions are investing in alternative verification methods, such as SMS-based authentication, to mitigate risks.

The controversy reflects broader debates over digital privacy and government oversight. While regulators argue that registration enhances security, civil society groups warn of surveillance risks. “This is a slippery slope,” said Carlos Ramírez, a legal expert at the Center for Digital Rights, in a *El Universal* interview. “We need transparency about how data will be used.”

As the deadline approaches, users are encouraged to register through official channels, including telecom provider websites and government portals. The CRT reiterated that penalties for non-compliance could include service suspension, though specifics remain unclear.