RICA – Comply with the new law and register your cellphone number today!
What is RICA?
RICA is the Regulation of Interception of Communications and Provision of Communication-Related Information Act. The customer registration section of the RICA, as set out by the South African Government requires everyone who has an active cellphone number or purchases a new Prepaid Starter Pack, to register their SIM cards from 1 July 2009.
Where do you register?
Currently it is possible to register your SIM card in all Vodacom’s regional Walk-In Customer Care Centres and selected Vodacom shops, and other Vodacom outlets. This process can take upto 24 hours. However through our website we take care of this hassle for you.
Why must you register?
RICA registration is a legislative requirement from the South African Government.
All users of SIM cards are required to comply with this new law.
This new legislation aims to help law enforcement agencies to track criminals using cellphones for illegal activities, thereby contributing to make South Africa safer for everyone.
What information and documents do you need to take with you to register?
What is required to register?
You are required to provide the following information when registering your SIM card:
- Cellphone number
- The SIM card to be registered
- Full names and surname
- ID number or passport number – you will need to show one of the following documents as proof of identity:
- As a foreign visitor you will need to provide either a letter from your Hotel where you will be staying
- A letter from the owner of the home you will be staying to confirm your residence whilst in South Africa
Please note: Registration must be done in person to confirm your identity. This is done on collection of your Pre-Registered starter pack, by providing us a copy of your passport and your proof of stay in South Africa.
When is it your responsibility to be RICA compliant?
- If you own a SIM card
- If you are paying a cellphone contract for yourself
- When a family member’s cellphone bill is in your name
- If you’re a parent or guardian of minors using SIM cards
- When you transfer a SIM card from another individual’s name into your name (Contract and Prepaid)
- When you port your cellphone number to another network.