Overview

• Ofcom has banned the leasing of Global Titles, a type of mobile network identifier, to prevent misuse by criminals and surveillance firms.
• The ban, effective immediately for new leases, includes a 12-month grace period for existing agreements to allow legitimate businesses to adjust.
• Criminals have used leased Global Titles to intercept calls, messages, and SMS security codes, as well as track individuals globally.
• The UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has urged international regulators to adopt similar measures to address the security risks.
• This regulatory intervention follows failed industry-led efforts and establishes the UK as a global leader in telecom security reforms.