Policy Title

Law 11/20 on Identification or Mobile Phone Traceability

Focus Area

Cybersecurity, Surveillance, Telecommunications

Country

Angola

Type

Law

Context and Purpose:
To tackle concerns around anonymous phone use and enhance public safety, Law 11/20 introduces obligations for mobile operators and subscribers to ensure accurate identity registration. It also defines how location data may be accessed in specific investigative or emergency contexts.

Key Provisions:

  • SIM Card Registration: Before activating mobile services, customers must provide valid identification, allowing operators to keep a secure database of subscriber details.
  • Traceability: When authorised by law, authorities can request telecom companies to provide phone location information to assist in criminal investigations, emergency rescues, or other legitimate pursuits.
  • Data Protection Measures: Operators are obliged to protect subscriber data from unauthorised access, implementing robust technical and organizational safeguards.

Impact and Enforcement:
Law 11/20 helps ensure the accountability of mobile phone usage, aiding in crime prevention and investigations. While it grants the state important surveillance tools, operators must adhere to proper privacy protocols and verify that any request for user data meets stringent legal requirements.