As Mexico approaches the June 30 deadline for linking mobile phone numbers to personal identification data, questions continue to grow about how the measure could affect millions of users, particularly those who rely on banking apps for everyday transactions.
Under the new requirement, mobile phone users must associate their number with their Unique Population Registry Code (CURP) and other personal information. The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (CRT) has repeatedly stated that there will be no extension to the deadline and warned that unregistered lines will be suspended until the process is completed.
According to the CRT, suspended lines will be unable to make or receive calls, send or receive text messages, or access mobile data services. Users would only be able to receive emergency communications, leaving many concerned about the impact on digital services that depend on mobile connectivity.
One of the biggest areas of uncertainty involves banking applications. Earlier this month, the Mexican Banking Association warned that users who fail to complete the registration process could encounter difficulties accessing their digital banking services if their mobile line is deactivated.
The association emphasized that a registered phone number plays an important role in verifying a customer’s identity and maintaining secure access to digital banking platforms. Because mobile numbers are often used as part of security and authentication systems, losing access to an active line could complicate certain banking activities.
However, Mexico’s largest bank, BBVA, has sought to reassure its customers. Mauricio Pallares, the bank’s Director of Corporate Communications and Identity, explained that BBVA’s mobile application can continue functioning even if a user’s phone line is suspended, provided the device is connected to a Wi-Fi network.
Pallares noted that the app itself does not depend on SMS messages for routine use, allowing customers to check balances, make transfers, pay bills, and review account activity while connected to the internet through Wi-Fi.
Still, some functions may be affected. Actions that require additional identity verification – such as activating the app on a new device or registering a digital banking account for the first time – typically rely on authentication methods linked to an active mobile phone number. In those situations, users could face limitations if their line has been suspended.
The debate has intensified as reports indicate that a significant percentage of mobile phone lines across the country have not yet completed the registration process. Industry observers have warned that enforcing the deadline as scheduled could create challenges for millions of users and telecommunications providers alike.
While the CRT continues to insist that the June 30 deadline remains in place, many experts believe the federal government may soon announce additional measures or consider extending the timeframe due to the slow pace of registrations.
For now, authorities are encouraging users to complete the registration process before the deadline to avoid any interruption in mobile service and to ensure continued access to the digital tools and applications they use every day.
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