There are three things that are guaranteed in this world: death, taxes... and if you’re in South Africa, needing to RICA your new SIM card!
Since 2010, South African law has required that anyone with a mobile number must RICA their SIM card. This way, all cellphone users can be identified by their phone number and law enforcement agencies can track criminals who use mobile devices for illegal activities.
But finding places to do RICA has often been challenging – although you can buy a SIM card anywhere, not every place does RICA. But Vodacom has introduced a way that you can RICA your sim card from home.
How Do I RICA From Home?
Vodacom offers a perfect solution, allowing customers to RICA any new SIM card using the helpful and efficient TOBi chatbot.
The process:
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All you need is your new SIM card, proof of address, your ID and a selfie. Scan or take photos of these documents.
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Then enter the MyVodacom app and select the ‘chat to TOBi’ tab. The chatbot will assist you with the RICA process, including verifying your documents and ID using AI, biometrics and Home Affairs.
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To complete the process, you’ll also need to make a video of you saying a special password.
What Happens After My Documents Are Confirmed?
Once TOBi has verified your documents with Home Affairs, your SIM card will be activated. All you need do is insert the SIM card into a phone and you’ll receive a welcome SMS from Vodacom confirming your activation.
How To Access TOBi
TOBi isn’t just for self-RICA. In fact, he can answer almost any query, and will direct you appropriately if he can’t assist. You can also access TOBi in various ways:
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SMS him on 082 009 4975
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Add him on WhatsApp on 082 009 8624.
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Access the Self-Service option on the MyVodacom or VodaPay app.
