On April 13, 2021, the Senate approved, in general, an amendment to the Federal Telecommunications and Broadcasting Law, which implies the creation of a National Registry of Mobile Telephony Users (the “Registry”). With a very close vote, it was decided to approve the creation of a Register that will contain biometric, fingerprint and personal data of mobile telephone users. In addition, the Padrón should contain the serial number of the user’s SIM card. This is aimed at reducing crimes committed through the use of cell phones, such as extortion. In this regard, mobile telephone users must provide the data required by the Padrón in order to contract and use a telephone line.
The discussion that took place in the Senate of the Republic awakened concerns in Mexican society, derived from the opinion of some senators who condemned the reform as unconstitutional for violating human rights. There were even opinions that described the reform as a characteristic of a totalitarian regime that hinders people’s freedom and strengthens the State’s control over the population. The cost of the infrastructure and operation of this new Padron was also discussed, which caused a stir among the senators and resulted in conflicting opinions, with the understanding that some consider the implementation of this new Padron to be a very burdensome economic expense.
Now the Plenary will discuss in particular the reservations to the opinion that amends several provisions of the Federal Telecommunications and Broadcasting Law.
