21 October 2008
The government is reportedly considering the implementation of a new national registration system for mobile phones and their owners. Under the scheme, which mirrors those already in place in some other countries, anyone purchasing a new handset would be required to register it. They would also be required to show a passport as proof of identity at the point of sale. The proposals come as part of a wider crackdown on terrorism, with concern growing over the potential for those involved in terror plots to communicate via their pay-as-you-go mobiles. A spokesperson for the Office of the Information Commissioner said: "With regards to the database that would contain details of all mobile users, including pay-as-you-go, we would expect that this information would be included in the database proposed in the draft communications data bill." Civil rights campaigners have opposed the plans, insisting a national database of this kind represents another step towards a Big Brother society. The government is also facing opposition over plans to record information on every telephone call made in the UK.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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