Cell Phone Registration 2026: Is the biometric CURP mandatory to avoid losing my line?

The Government of Mexico has launched the new mobile telephone registry, a measure that seeks to link each cell phone number with the identity of its owner to stop the growing wave of extortion and fraud in the country. With the process already active, thousands of users are wondering what the real requirements are and what will happen to their lines if they do not complete the procedure before the deadline.

THE GOAL: STOP TELEPHONE EXTORTION IN MEXICO

According to the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (CRT), this mandatory registration responds to a national security crisis. Data from INEGI (ENVIPE) reveal that extortion is one of the most common crimes, and more than 90% of cases are committed by telephone, taking advantage of the anonymity of prepaid lines.

With this regulation, Mexico joins a list of 155 countries that already require mandatory registration of SIM cards to guarantee traceability and reduce the room for maneuver for crime.

WILL THE BIOMETRIC CURP BE MANDATORY IN 2026?

One of the biggest doubts among Telcel, AT&T and Movistar users is whether they must process the new biometric CURP to be able to register their cell phone.

The answer is no. Although some companies accept it as a valid identification option, it is not a mandatory requirement. Citizens can complete their registration using any of the following official documents:

• Current official identification (INE).
• Passport.
• traditional CURP.
• Photograph of the owner (in certain cases).

Important note: If you already have a rental plan (postpaid), it is likely that your company already has your data registered, but it is recommended to check with your provider to avoid surprises.

KEY DATES AND CONSEQUENCES OF NOT REGISTERING

The process began on January 9, 2026 and users have several months to catch up. The procedure can be carried out in person at customer service centers or remotely through web portals and help lines.

• Deadline: June 30, 2026.
• What happens if I don’t register?: As of July 1, all lines not registered in the registry will be permanently suspended. Users will only be able to make emergency calls until they complete the pairing process.

HOW TO REGISTER SAFELY?

To avoid falling into new scams during this process, the authorities recommend carrying out the procedure only through the operators’ official channels:

1. Customer Service Centers (In person).
2. Official apps from your telephone company.
3. Verified web portals.

This national effort seeks to restore security to users and ensure that mobile service is a reliable tool and not a conduit for crime.