Millions of SIM Cards Blocked in Mobile Data Verification Crackdown: How to Unlock Your Number

A massive nationwide telecom sweep has left millions of mobile subscribers temporarily disconnected. Under strict new regulatory policies that went into effect on June 15, mobile network operators have officially enforced a one-way block on approximately 18 million phone numbers due to incomplete personal data verification.

If your number has been affected, your outgoing calls and text messages are currently disabled, though you can still receive incoming communication. However, this is a timed warning; network providers will completely cut off your service if you do not act immediately.

The 65-Day Countdown: Strict Enforcement Timeline

Subscribers who ignore the one-way block face permanent loss of their mobile numbers under Circular No. 08 issued by the Ministry of Science and Technology:

• The 60-Day Window: If verification is not completed within 60 days of the initial outbound restriction, the SIM card will be blocked in both directions (no incoming or outgoing services).
• The Final 5 Days: Following the two-way block, users have a final 5-day grace period. If the account remains unverified after these 5 days, the network provider will officially terminate the service contract and permanently reclaim the phone number.

To restore full functionality, users must update their profiles with their full name, date of birth, personal identification number, and facial biometric data, all of which must match the National Population Database.

Method 1: Fast Online Verification via Mobile Operator Apps

Network providers strongly recommend using official mobile applications to bypass long lines and wait times at physical retail stores. Calling and texting features are restored immediately after successful digital processing.

Method 2: National Identity Verification via VNeID

For users who already possess an active electronic identity account, the verification can be handled entirely within the government’s official VNeID application. Once you complete the identity confirmation steps within VNeID, the platform automatically synchronizes the authenticated data with your respective mobile network to lift the outbound call restrictions.

Method 3: In-Person Store Visits and Special Support

If you run into technical errors during the online registration process, you can verify your data manually by bringing a chip-enabled national identity card or valid ID documents to authorized service points:

• Viettel Customers: You can visit physical Viettel retail outlets, authorized sales points, or partner store chains. Mobile support units are also actively deployed in local residential neighborhoods during this peak period.
• Elderly & Mobility-Impaired Support: Viettel has set up a dedicated toll-free hotline at 18008098. Customers with limited mobility can request home assistance, and network personnel will travel directly to their location to complete the biometric process.
• VinaPhone Customers: Direct, in-person verification support is available at any VinaPhone or VNPT service center nationwide.

Protect Your Connected Accounts Immediately

Because modern mobile numbers are heavily tied to sensitive personal infrastructure, resolving this block is urgent. Users are strongly urged to verify their subscription profiles immediately—especially if the affected phone number is directly linked to bank accounts, e-wallets, or multi-factor authentication services—to avoid catastrophic operational disruptions.