Anonymous SIM Not the Same as Anonymous Phone Ownership
The "Anonymous SIM Challenge" has been postponed or called off completely. More than a decade ago I researched the market at shops around here and wrote down my findings, then published a summary.
Many years have passed and last year this article by Luuk van Roosmalen showed that things had not deteriorated, i.e. not quite as one can expect. He said: "Regular people might also use an anonymous SIM card if they are very concerned about their privacy. This might be true of journalists or activists acting in countries that don’t respect freedom of expression so much. There are other easier and cheaper ways to protect yourself online however."
Some people say those cards can be purchased anonymously for about a pound. The more detailed of the answers says:
In the UK, you can purchase anonymous SIM cards from several places. Here are some options:
- Retail Stores: Many convenience stores and supermarkets sell prepaid SIM cards that can be purchased without providing personal information. Look for stores like:
- Tesco
- Sainsbury's
- Asda
- WHSmith- Mobile Phone Shops: Shops like Carphone Warehouse or EE often offer prepaid SIM cards. You can usually buy these without needing to register.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon or eBay may have sellers offering prepaid SIM cards. Make sure to check the seller's reputation and return policy.
- Vending Machines: Some cities have vending machines that sell prepaid SIM cards.
- Local Markets: In some areas, local markets may have stalls selling mobile phone accessories, including SIM cards.
When buying a SIM card, ensure it is a prepaid option, as these typically do not require personal identification. However, keep in mind that regulations may require some level of identification for activation, depending on the provider. Always check the specific requirements of the SIM card you choose.
So this sort of renders the "challenge" moot. It seems like it's still possible. In some countries it is not possible "officially", but people can turn to a "black market".
Like stated before, I've no intent of purchasing one or carrying around a mobile phone. It's just the prospect of anonymous phone ownership that's intriguing because, as Luuk van Roosmalen pointed out, many firms falsely advertise anonymity when in practice it is a lot more complicated than anonymous purchase, top-up etc. The voice, location, call history (like phone book) etc. give away one's identity quite fast, with or without other data sources conjoined (like camera footage from nearby cameras). Offline devices are one's best chance. I still carry around a Palm PDA. It's over 20 years old. It still works. █