Macra unveils systems to safeguard mobile users
In a move to fortify the nation’s mobile networks against the growing threat of fraud, the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (Macra) has revealed plans to implement advanced systems to safeguard mobile users in the country.
Speaking during a conference on the new frequency allocation exercise in Lilongwe on Tuesday, Macra director general Daud Suleman said the regulatory body aims to use the Central Equipment Identification Registry and the Revenue Assurance systems in ensuring increased security of mobile communications nationwide and collect revenue from operators.
He said the system has already been connected to telecommunications networks operators and that come April, the systems will be operational.
Said Suleman: “We have been able to connect these systems with telecommunications operators such as Airtel, TNM and others, so that by April this year we should be able to start using these systems to combat mobile fraud, trace and block fake handsets from operating but also as a regulator be able to collect revenue from those benefiting from Macra’s spectrum.”
He added that through this system grey matter, blacklisted gadgets and unregistered gadgets will be unable to operate in the country as only those registered will have access to the network.
“Currently, only registered cards operate in the country. We want the same for gadgets so that only those gadgets that will be registered will be enabled to operate, which will also mean certifying ownership of one gadget. This means if one buys a gadget from someone, they will be required to follow a process to change ownership of the gadget, all this in an effort to create a safe space for mobile users,” Suleman said.
This is in line with what Minister of Information and Digitisation Moses Kunkuyu said in December 2023, when he assured that government is geared to deal with mobile fraud and abuse which is rampant in the country.
He said: “My ministry through Macra is trying to empower the consumer with information that enables them not to fall into the trap of fraudsters and also intensifies sensitisation.”
The minister highlighted that attaining mobile user security requires coordinated efforts between operators and other players such as banking and security technology providers.
In 2022, Macra observed that mobile fraud in the country claimed an estimated K120 million monthly, describing it as a stumbling block to the growth of the digital economy.
During the conference, Suleman also revealed that they have successfully switched over to the new FM broadcasting network and that all radio stations across the country are now broadcasting on new frequencies.
He described this as a milestone to the broadcasting sector because it has also helped to create space where the regulator can now licence 150 new additional radio stations.
