Vodacom customers can now RICA their SIM cards from the comfort of their own homes. The self RICA process automatically captures and validates the customers’ personal details against external trusted sources including the Department of Home Affairs and biometric systems. This online self RICA process removes the hustle of visiting a store to RICA a SIM card, creating ultimate convenience for the customer.
Self-help with TOBI
The self RICA process follows the successful launch of the VodaPay app that assists customers with updating their existing RICA details, and managing their profiles. In addition, Vodacom has added another self RICA avenue for customers. Customers can now self RICA through TOBi, Vodacom’s Chatbot on the VodaPay app.
The process is as simple as taking a picture, scanning a new prepaid SIM card, an ID document or passport, recording a video with a unique PIN as proof that you are requesting the SIM RICA. All these identity verifications are compared using AI, biometrics and then verified with the Department of Home Affairs. Once verified, the customer can insert the SIM in any cellphone to activate it where they will receive a welcome message from Vodacom with their new cellphone number.
How to make sure you complete the process successfully
When starting the self RICA process, make sure that you have an ID document on hand. For identity verification, South African citizens can use their green ID book or smart card while foreigners can use their passports. Throughout the process, you will be prompted to take photos of your identification document.
Here are some tips for a smooth identity verification process:
- Images are taken in a well lit room
- Images are clear and not blurry
- Images are high-quality
- The information on your documents is fully visible and readable
- Your verification selfie or video matches the image in your ID or passport
- You have your original identity documents (photocopies are not accepted)
To find out more information about self RICA, visit Vodacom and select “Self-service,” then “Vodacom self RICA.” Alternatively, you can add “TOBi” as a contact on 082 009 8624 and send a WhatsApp to ask TOBi questions about the self RICA process.
