Baku | July 28, 2025
In the digital age, the protection of personal data is becoming an increasingly important issue for citizens of Azerbaijan. A particular concern is the possibility of registering mobile numbers in someone else’s name using a copy of their ID. This issue remains relevant, as many citizens regularly send copies of their documents via messengers for purposes such as applying for loans, finding employment, or obtaining various services.
Is there a real risk that someone could misuse our personal data?
According to official rules in Azerbaijan, mobile operators are required to issue SIM cards only when the citizen is present in person with their original ID. The subscriber registration system includes strict controls over the issuance of numbers. However, as practice shows, these rules are sometimes violated. Regional sales points, where control over regulations may be weaker, are particularly vulnerable. There have been cases where SIM cards were registered using document copies or “through connections,” bypassing official requirements.
Customer relations expert Tural Seyidli warns, “Never share copies of your ID through WhatsApp or other unofficial channels. If you need to send documents, use only the corporate email of the official company representative. This ensures that the history of requests can be traced.”
A logical question arises: who is responsible if a number is registered in a citizen’s name without their knowledge?
Lawyer Javid Yolchuev explained the situation: “If it is proven that a number was registered without the citizen’s knowledge or consent, they will not be held legally responsible for any actions taken using that number. In such cases, responsibility lies with the operator’s employee who violated the regulations and the person actually using the number. If such a case is discovered, an investigation is conducted to determine fraud, after which the citizen will be freed from any liability.”
To protect their rights, the legal expert recommends that Azerbaijani citizens regularly check with mobile operators for a list of numbers registered in their name. If a number is found to have been opened without their knowledge, they should immediately contact the operator to cancel it.
