The recent detention of Diamond Opor's elderly father by the DSS over a recycled SIM card linked to past crimes is an urgent wake-up call. This incident exposes a critical flaw in Nigeria's SIM registration system, where a newly purchased number can carry the criminal history of its previous owner. To protect yourself from wrongful accusations, you must actively manage and audit the phone numbers linked to your National Identification Number (NIN).
Follow these steps to safeguard your digital identity:
- Initiate the Check: Dial the official USSD code *996# on your mobile phone. This code connects you to the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) system.
- Access NIN Services: Follow the menu prompts. You will typically select an option like "NIN Retrieval" (often option 4) to verify your identity.
- Request Linked Numbers: In the next menu, choose "Get Virtual NIN" or "View Linked Numbers" (often a subsequent option like 2). This triggers the system to send you an SMS.
- Audit the List: Review the SMS containing all phone numbers associated with your NIN. Immediately identify any number you do not recognize or own.
- Formally Unlink Numbers: To remove a fraudulent number, you must visit a customer service office of the relevant network provider (MTN, Glo, Airtel, 9mobile) with a valid ID. Do not attempt to unlink another person's number via USSD.
