By Delly Waigeno – EMTV Port Moresby
Two important documents were launched today that will shape the future of communication services in Papua New Guinea.
First is the Cybercrime Policy, to safeguard citizens and internet users against cybercrime, and eventually prosecute offenders under the new law.
The second document launched was the Regulation on compulsory SIM Card Registration.
The launch of the PNG Cybercrime Policy and the Regulation on SIM Card Registration was attended by industry representatives and other stakeholders.
Secretary for the Department of Communication, Paulius Korni, said the ICT sector in Papua New Guinea has fast expanded since 2007.
The rise in Internet use has brought with it an increase of opportunities as well as an increase of cyber threat.
Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Jimmy Miringtoro, said the objective of the PNG Cybercrime Policy is to develop a standalone legislation that will see offenders be prosecuted under the new law.
The Regulation on SIM Card Registration will make it compulsory for everyone who has a SIM card, to have it registered with their name, photograph, address and occupation.
CEO of the National Information and Communications Technology Authority or NICTA , Charles Punaha, said within 18 months all users are to visit their mobile service provider and have themselves registered. Failure to do so, within the given timeframe, will result in the termination of services of any unregistered SIM number.
Punaha said NICTA has allocated 10 million mobile numbers; 6 million to Digicel, 2 million to Telikom and 2 million to Bmobile-Vodafone.
He urged all operators to put in place processes for the compulsory SIM Registration. He said all points of sale must have the necessary facilities to cater for this change.
The SIM Card Registration Regulation was certified yesterday, and is expected to be Gazetted in two weeks time.
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