Hayo boosts mobile registry to combat SIM swap fraud

Hayo has expanded its National Mobile Registry platform, adding new modules that focus on SIM swap fraud, handset theft and illegal device activity on national mobile networks.

The company said the updated system gives governments and mobile operators a unified view of SIM and device behaviour in real time. It said the platform can monitor and validate device and SIM activity across a national ecosystem.

Hayo pointed to rising fraud and theft as drivers for the changes. It cited industry data that SIM swap scams rose by 1,055% in the UK last year, according to Cifas. It also cited estimates that SIM swap activity affects around 25% of mobile subscribers in some markets such as Kenya.

SIM swap fraud typically involves criminals transferring a victim's number to a SIM under their control. Attackers then intercept calls and text messages, including one-time passcodes. This can lead to account takeover across banking, email and social media services. Mobile device theft and the circulation of counterfeit or non-compliant handsets can compound the problem by keeping suspect devices active on national networks.

Hayo also framed the problem as a public finance issue. It said grey-market imports, illegal devices and limited oversight can contribute to tax leakage. It said these factors can result in large revenue losses for governments.

Fraud detection

The updated platform includes SIM swap detection functions that flag abnormal SIM or port-out activity. Hayo said the system identifies suspicious activity within milliseconds. It said this can allow authorities to disrupt account takeover attempts before they affect users.

Hayo said it has also expanded functions focused on stolen device management. It said the platform now includes improved device pairing and expanded reporting. It also includes integration with GSMA data and national blacklists.

The company said the platform can run with end-to-end automation. It said authorities can configure it to align with country-specific rules and regulatory requirements.

"We're taking our NMR platform to the next level to enable governments to strengthen identity protection, secure mobile networks, and protect citizens from fraud techniques that are evolving at a fast pace," said Feraz Ahmed, CEO, Hayo. "By analysing SIM activity in real time and strengthening device intelligence, we're providing all the tools needed to combat SIM swap attacks, remove stolen devices from networks, and reinforce trust across digital economies."

Regulatory use

National mobile registries have become a tool used by some governments and regulators to enforce device compliance, manage stolen handset lists and oversee SIM registration regimes. Operators can also use registry data in processes tied to porting and SIM replacement.

Hayo said the latest modules focus on visibility across an entire mobile ecosystem. "Governments need intelligence-led tools that can reveal blind spots, enforce compliance, and provide a full, real-time picture of what is happening across their mobile ecosystem," said Sergio Rodrigues, Director of Strategic Partnerships & Product, Hayo. "Our expanded NMR platform delivers that visibility, making national networks safer, protecting citizens, and shielding governments from the risks posed by counterfeit or non-compliant devices."

Market backdrop

SIM swap fraud has drawn increased attention from banks, regulators and telecoms operators in several markets. Some operators have introduced tighter checks for SIM replacement and number porting, while financial institutions have moved away from SMS-based authentication for high-risk actions. Fraud groups have also adapted tactics, including social engineering and account compromise against customer service channels.

Handset theft remains a persistent issue for police forces and operators. The use of IMEI-based blacklists and device pairing measures can reduce the resale value of stolen handsets in markets where enforcement is consistent. Counterfeit and altered devices can still appear on networks, particularly where import controls and device verification processes remain limited.

Hayo said the updated platform follows its earlier release of the National Mobile Registry product in 2025. It said it works with governments, mobile operators, customs authorities, police forces and regulators on further changes to the system.

The company said it expects demand for national-level oversight tools to remain strong as fraud techniques evolve and as authorities place greater emphasis on mobile identity and device compliance.