Telcos Penalized Over Fraud Checks

Australian telecommunications provider Amaysim has paid a $138,600 penalty after failing to complete mandatory identity checks before transferring mobile numbers from other providers, the Australian Communications and Media Authority said on Sept. 30, 2026. The breaches resulted in 13 unauthorized number transfers during 2025.

ACMA Chair Nerida O’Loughlin said identity verification requirements were essential to prevent criminals from hijacking mobile services and causing identity theft, financial harm and disruption to essential accounts. The authority said it was not aware of any financial losses linked to Amaysim’s breaches.

In addition to the penalty, Amaysim accepted a court-enforceable undertaking requiring an independent review of its policies and procedures, implementation of recommended improvements and regular reporting to the ACMA.

The regulator separately issued a formal warning to Switch Mobile Networks, which trades as Ezee Mobile, after finding the company failed to provide consumers with information on reporting suspected scams to police and government support services. Under Australian telecommunications rules, providers must conduct additional identity checks before transferring mobile numbers and publish guidance on reporting suspected fraudulent transfers. The ACMA said telcos have paid more than $5.2 million for breaches under its mobile fraud compliance crackdown.