Kuwait Warns Against Illegal Phone and Device Trading Schemes
Interior Ministry cautions against SIM card misuse, delayed telecom contracts and money laundering violations
Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior has warned citizens and residents against dealing with individuals or companies involved in illegal mobile phone and telecommunications transactions, stressing the need to comply with the country’s laws and regulations.
The ministry urged the public to avoid transactions involving the resale of SIM cards, mobile phones and delayed telecommunications service contracts, warning that such practices could expose individuals to legal accountability.
The ministry said that the relevant practices could be exploited for fraud, including the use of telecommunications services in money laundering operations. It cautioned the public against becoming involved in any activities that could facilitate financial crimes.
According to the ministry, some schemes lure customers with the promise of obtaining immediate cash in exchange for purchasing devices or equipment at prices lower than their market value. Such transactions may involve discounts of up to 40 percent, with the original value of the goods used to disguise the transfer of money.
The ministry stressed that these practices constitute a clear violation of the applicable legal and regulatory frameworks and could lead to serious legal consequences, including criminal prosecution and judicial action.
The ministry reaffirmed that it would continue working with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Communications and Information Technology Regulatory Authority to monitor and track violating online accounts and commercial outlets, identify those responsible and take necessary legal action.
Enforcement measures may include the withdrawal or cancellation of commercial licences, administrative closure of violating businesses and referral of those involved to the competent authorities for further legal proceedings.
