To Stem Online Scams, UK Becomes First European Country to Ban SIM Farms

In a move to combat the growing threat of digital fraud, the United Kingdom is set to become the first country in Europe to outlaw the possession and supply of SIM farms—devices used by criminals to send mass scam texts and create fake online accounts.

The new legislation, announced by the UK Home Office, forms part of a broader initiative to strengthen the nation’s fraud prevention efforts. SIM farms—technical devices capable of holding dozens or even hundreds of SIM cards—are frequently used by fraudsters to send scam messages at scale and automate the creation of ‘verified’ fake accounts on social platforms and services. This technology has been at the heart of some of the most pervasive fraud tactics targeting British consumers.

Under the new law, individuals or businesses found in possession of SIM farms without a legitimate reason will face severe penalties. In England and Wales, there will be no cap on fines, while in Scotland and Northern Ireland, offenders could be fined up to £5,000. The ban will come into force six months after the Crime and Policing Bill receives Royal Assent.

Fraud Minister Lord Hanson emphasized the seriousness of the issue, stating, “Fraud devastates lives, and I am determined to take the decisive action necessary to protect the public from these shameful criminals.” He revealed that two-thirds of adults in the UK—equivalent to more than 35 million people—have received suspicious messages on their phones, highlighting the widespread nature of the problem.

The government’s move has been praised by industry leaders and law enforcement alike. Rachel Andrews, Head of Corporate Security at Vodafone UK, expressed strong support: “Vodafone UK is committed to protecting all our customers from fraud, including activity enabled by SIM farms. So far this year, we have blocked over 38.5 million suspected scam messages. This new legislation is an important step in the fight against fraud, and collaboration between the industry and government is crucial.”

The National Crime Agency echoed these sentiments. Deputy Director for Fraud, Nick Sharp, said, “Fraud is the crime we are all most likely to experience, and one that causes victims significant emotional and financial harm. The ban announced today is very welcome. It will give us a vital tool to step up our fight against fraudsters.”

The UK’s decision to outlaw SIM farms represents a significant shift in digital crime policy, setting a precedent for other European nations to follow. As scammers increasingly rely on advanced technologies to reach victims, the UK government’s proactive approach sends a clear message: it will not allow criminal innovation to go unchecked.

This legislation is part of a wider fraud strategy which includes enhanced regulatory oversight, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration between telecom providers, tech platforms, and law enforcement.

With this move, the UK aims to significantly reduce the volume of scam messages and protect consumers from the financial and emotional damage inflicted by modern fraud operations.