New regulations for banking transactions and phone lines: Facial recognition system is coming

Within the scope of the Judicial Reform Strategy Document, strict audits will be implemented for banking transactions and phone subscriptions. Under the reform announced by the Ministry of Justice, the responsibilities of banks and financial institutions will be increased, and new obligations will be introduced to combat fraud and cybercrimes.

SECURITY MEASURES IN BANKING TRANSACTIONS WILL BE INCREASED 

According to the new regulation, it will not be possible to open an account at banks and electronic payment institutions without verifying a chip-enabled identity card. Individuals performing transactions at ATMs will be required to have their facial images detected by security cameras. ATM transactions will not be permitted for individuals whose faces cannot be identified by the cameras. ATM security camera recordings will be stored for at least two years.

Furthermore, in order to prevent cybercrimes, certain accounts may be temporarily suspended. Assets found in accounts determined to be subject to crime may be seized and returned to the victim who suffered damage from the crime.

If banks and financial institutions do not send the information and documents requested by judicial authorities within 10 days, administrative fines may be imposed on the relevant institutions.

NEW REGULATIONS FOR PHONE LINES 

New regulations regarding phone subscriptions will also come into effect. Identity verification processes will be tightened, and updating subscription records will be made mandatory. Lines that do not update their records within the specified period will be closed to communication.

Citizens will be allowed to own a maximum of three mobile lines, while foreign nationals will be allowed to own a maximum of one. Phone lines determined to have been used in fraud crimes will be disconnected.

Telephone operators will also be obligated to transmit the information and documents requested by judicial authorities within 10 days. Administrative fines may be imposed on operator companies that do not share information within this period.

NEW STEPS IN THE FIGHT AGAINST FRAUD

With the new regulations, it is aimed to combat crimes committed using banking and information systems more effectively. Regulations will be made to resolve issues related to seizure and confiscation procedures in criminal proceedings.

In the fight against crimes such as fraud and theft via information systems, it is aimed to prevent crimes by bringing financial transactions and mobile line usage under stricter control.