Mexico sets deadlines for mandatory cell phone registration with CURP

The Comisión Reguladora de Telecomunicaciones (CRT) is advancing the program that requires all mobile phone numbers in Mexico to be linked to the holder’s CURP, aiming to curb extortion, fraud and the use of anonymous SIM cards. Certain lines are exempt: SIM cards that cannot make voice calls, send SMS or access the internet, and lines activated temporarily for emergencies or natural‑disaster response.

A phased deadline for registration in 2026 has been published. Numbers ending in 0 must be registered by 15 August, those ending in 1 by 31 August, and the remaining digits follow a schedule that runs through 31 December, with each digit group receiving a specific cut‑off date. The requirement applies primarily to prepaid lines and recently activated SIMs, though postpaid users may also be asked to update their data. Failure to register may trigger temporary suspension of service, after which a 72‑hour grace period is offered to regularise the line.