Mobile subscribers across Mexico, including those with Telcel, AT&T, Movistar, CFE, and various virtual operators, must register their identity with their service provider by June 30, 2026. Failure to comply will result in the mandatory deactivation of standard communication services.
According to the new regulatory guidelines, providers must disable outgoing calls, SMS, and data access for any line that remains unlinked after the deadline. Affected users will lose the ability to contact friends, family, or professional associates through their mobile devices.
Restricted access to emergency services
Once a line is disabled, the device will function only as a basic emergency tool. Users will maintain the ability to receive common alert protocol messages and contact specific emergency and citizen assistance numbers. These include 911 for emergencies, 089 for anonymous reporting, 088 for the National Guard, 079 for federal citizen attention, and 074 for highway assistance via Capufe.
Beyond these specific channels, users will only be able to communicate with their respective mobile provider’s internal customer service system. This restriction applies to all physical SIM cards and electronic eSIMs distributed through any commercial channel.
Article 12 of the Guidelines for the Identification of Mobile Telephone Lines states, "To enable the contracted services, the Linking process with a Holder must be carried out." Until this link is verified, the hardware effectively loses its utility as a standard telecommunications tool.
Financial consequences remain a concern for postpaid subscribers who fail to register. While users lose their ability to utilize the network, they may still be liable for monthly contractual payments until their agreement expires. The Communications Regulatory Commission (CRT) confirmed to Expansión that these billing obligations do not automatically cease when the service is deactivated for lack of identification.
Most current postpaid contracts already require personal identification during the initial sign-up process, which may mitigate the number of affected users in that category. However, prepaid users and those who purchased SIMs without identity verification must complete the registration process to ensure continuous connectivity.
