Mexico has extended the deadline for mobile phone users to register their lines with the Unique Population Registry Code (CURP) [1].
This measure is central to a 2026 law designed to combat crime and improve user identification by linking every active phone line to a verified legal identity [2]. The government is prioritizing security and traceability to reduce the anonymity often exploited in criminal activities.
The Comisión Regulatoria de Telecomunicaciones (CRT) and the Mexican government said the extension was announced this week [1]. Registration for these lines originally began in January 2026 [3]. While the initial window was set to close in June 2026, the new deadline has been pushed to later in the month [1].
The decision to grant more time follows reports of significant user resistance. More than 63% of mobile lines in Mexico have not been registered [4]. This high percentage of non-compliance has forced officials to reconsider the timeline to avoid widespread service disruptions.
There is currently conflicting information regarding the consequences for those who miss the new date. Some reports indicate that fines will be applied to users who fail to register by June 2026 [5]. However, other sources suggest the government is profiling further extensions due to the high volume of unregistered users [4].
The CRT said the process is necessary for national security. Users must provide their CURP to their respective service providers to ensure their lines remain active under the new legal framework [2].
“More than 63% of mobile lines in Mexico have not been registered”
The extension highlights a tension between the Mexican government's security objectives and the practical challenges of mass digital registration. By linking phone lines to the CURP, the state aims to eliminate 'burner' phones used in organized crime, but the low registration rate suggests either a lack of public trust or significant logistical hurdles in the rollout.
