Many Kenyans have raised concerns after discovering unknown mobile numbers registered under their national ID without their knowledge. In response, telecommunication companies in Kenya, led by telecommunications giant Safaricom, have introduced straightforward tools that allow customers to verify all SIM cards linked to their identification documents.
These checks allow users to confirm which numbers are registered under their documents and to report any suspicious or unfamiliar lines. Safaricom, Airtel, and Telkom have each provided dedicated USSD codes or app-based options to make this process easy and accessible.
These measures also align with legal requirements under the Communications Act and the SIM Card Registration Regulations of 2015, which govern subscriber registration in Kenya.
The law requires all telecommunications companies to capture key customer details, including full names and national identity card numbers, before activating any new SIM card. For individuals without a national ID, alternative documents such as an Alien ID, Passport, Service Card, or East African ID may be used.
Additionally, operators must maintain accurate records of this information and submit it to the Communications Authority every quarter, ensuring compliance and supporting efforts to curb SIM misuse and identity fraud.
How to check numbers registered with your ID on Safaricom
Safaricom urges users to take an active role in safeguarding their accounts by monitoring registered numbers and preventing unauthorized SIM activity.
The company’s customers can verify all SIM cards registered under their ID by using the *106# code.
You can only use Safaricom’s number-verification service when logging in through your Primary Number. This is the oldest and most consistently active Safaricom line registered under your national ID — essentially, the first Safaricom SIM you registered that remains in use.
If you own just one Safaricom line, that automatically counts as your primary number. However, for customers with several Safaricom SIM cards linked to their ID, the system recognizes the earliest active one as the primary line.
Safaricom allows customers to update their primary number, but this can only be done in person at a Safaricom Shop.
After confirming which of your lines is the primary one, you can proceed with the steps below using that number.
- Dial *106# on your Safaricom line.
- Select “Number Query Service”
- Select the option “Check Registration Status”.
- Safaricom will send an SMS listing all lines registered with your ID.
How to check reported numbers and deactivate unknown numbers
- Dial *106#.
- Select “Number Query Service”
- Select the option to “Check reported numbers” or “deactivate unknown numbers.”
- Choose the unfamiliar number from the list to deactivate unknown numbers.
Safaricom also sends an SMS from 707 whenever someone attempts to register a new SIM card using your ID, allowing you to confirm or deny the request.
Also Read: How to Confirm M-PESA Transaction After a Delayed Message
Safaricom safety tips
The mobile operator provides a set of safety tips to help customers protect their mobile lines, M-Pesa accounts, and personal information from fraudsters.
Customers are advised to dial *100*100# to stop any SIM swap attempts carried out without their physical presence.
The company further reminds customers that all official Safaricom calls originate from 0722000000, and any other number claiming to represent Safaricom should be treated with caution. Users should never share their M-Pesa PIN, passwords, one-time verification codes, or any personal details, regardless of who is requesting them.
Safaricom also urges customers to forward any suspicious messages to 333 for verification and action. Any caller asking you to send money, reverse a transaction, disclose your account details, or “unlock a prize” should be ignored, as these are common tactics used in fraud schemes.
How to check numbers registered with your ID on Airtel Kenya
Airtel also uses the *106# code to help customers verify SIM cards linked to their ID.
- Dial *106# using an Airtel number.
- Numbers Registered with my ID
- Choose the National ID option, or one of the other options if you registered using a different document.
- Enter your ID number and submit.
- You’ll then receive an SMS with a list of Airtel Kenya numbers registered to your National ID.
To remove any unknown numbers, visit an Airtel shop with your original ID.
Also Read: M-Pesa, Airtel Money, and T-Kash 2025 Withdrawal & Transaction Charges
How to check numbers registered with your ID on Telkom Kenya
Telkom customers can check registered numbers through USSD or the My Telkom App.
While using the USSD option, dial *106# and follow the prompts to view registered numbers. You will then receive a reply and an SMS with a list of Telkom numbers registered to your National ID.
Customers can also use the My Telkom App by downloading and opening the app. Go to “My Account.” One can also opt to visit a Telkom care centre with their ID to verify and deregister any unauthorized numbers.
Customers using any mobile operator in Kenya should keep checking their registration status regularly to avoid misuse of their details
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A Telkom shop in Nairobi. PHOTO/Sarit
