Proof of identity required for prepaid phone cards in Belgium

The purchase of a prepaid phone card in Belgium from now on requires proof of identity, decided the federal government. Telecoms minister Alexander De Croo (pictured) provides a number of options to prove one's identity: ID card, electronic signature, online form or bank card, writes Het Laatste Nieuws.

Prepaid cards are often anonymous, which makes it impossible to identify the user, and easier for criminals to conduct untraceable phone conversations. There are currently about 5 million prepaid cards circulating in Belgium, about 1.5 million of which are anonymous.

When buying a prepaid card from a newspaper vendor or similar shop, an ID card is sufficient. When buying a prepaid card online, an electronic signature is possible, requiring the customer to log in with an electronic ID card or credit card. Registration will also be possible via an online form.