Hong Kong authorities have proposed reducing the maximum number of prepaid SIM cards a user can register with a telecommunications service provider from 10 to just three, and penalising those who misuse them.

Improper use of SIM cards registered under another person’s information without authorisation may result in a maximum fine of HK$25,000 (US$3,185) or up to one year in prison.

“The government believes that [the proposed measures] can effectively combat fraudulent activities involving prepaid SIM cards, and [better protect] telecommunications service users from potential harm,” authorities said in the paper.

The government said the proposed offences would target illegal activities involving the provision of personal information to register SIM cards on behalf of others, as well as the sale or purchase of already registered ones.

Individuals found to possess 10 or more SIM cards registered under other people’s information without authorisation or reasonable justification will also be “presumed” to have the intention of using such cards for criminal activities.