Decision from BTK affecting millions: Unverified lines will be shut down

The Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) has amended two separate regulations concerning subscription transactions and identity verification practices in the electronic communications sector.

The regulations published in the Official Gazette have introduced new practices in many areas, ranging from new phone and internet subscriptions to the auditing of existing subscriptions.

NEW IDENTITY VERIFICATION ERA IN SUBSCRIPTIONS

With the amendment, subscription contracts can now be executed both in writing and in an electronic environment. However, before a contract is established, the applicant's identity will be verified using methods such as electronic identity documents, passwords, facial recognition, or fingerprint summaries.

Verification processes for applications made in an electronic environment can be performed remotely. For face-to-face transactions, a video recording of the transaction may be taken in addition to the identity document.

CHIP-ENABLED ID AND NFC SUPPORT

Within the scope of the regulation, the definitions of contact-based electronic identity documents (TEKB) and electronic identity documents with near-field communication (NFC) capability (YAKB) have also been updated.

Accordingly, electronic verification can be performed using chip-enabled ID cards and identity documents with NFC capability. Additionally, identity verification can be performed via the e-Devlet mobile application with NFC support.

SEPARATE VERIFICATION MECHANISM FOR FOREIGNERS

Identity verification for foreigners who do not possess an electronic identity document will be conducted through the records of the Presidency of Migration Management.

Verification will be ensured by comparing live images in the Migration Management's mobile application with photos in official records. For foreigners who possess an electronic identity document, an NFC-based verification method can be used.

Verification processes for diplomatic mission staff and their family members will be carried out through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

NO NEW LINES WITH UNVERIFIABLE DOCUMENTS

With the new regulation, new subscription contracts cannot be made with identity documents that cannot be verified in an electronic environment, except for exceptions specified in the regulation.

In this context, opening new lines with documents that lack identity verification features has been restricted.

LIMIT IMPOSED ON THE NUMBER OF LINES

The regulation amendment also imposes an obligation on operators not to create new subscriptions under the same person's name beyond the limit to be determined by the BTK.

Thus, it is aimed to track the number of lines registered to a person more effectively.

SUBSCRIPTIONS WILL BE AUDITED REGULARLY

According to the new rules, operators will check the active status of all their subscribers every three months.

Individual subscribers and authorized persons in corporate subscriptions will be verified via the Identity Sharing System using their Turkish Republic identity number or foreign identity number. In corporate subscriptions, whether the legal entity still exists will also be examined through official records.

UNVERIFIABLE LINES MAY BE SHUT DOWN

If the activity of a subscription cannot be verified as a result of the checks to be performed, the operator will first provide notification via SMS.

If verification is not provided within 30 days after the notification, a restriction will be applied to the line. If verification is not completed within 90 days, the relevant line will be shut down.

In corporate subscriptions, the line will not be shut down if only the authorized person cannot be verified. However, subscription transactions cannot be performed until a new authorized person is defined.

IMPLEMENTATION DATE ANNOUNCED

The regulation amendments published in the Official Gazette will enter into force on June 25, 2026.