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The High Court has ruled that mobile phone numbers are part of an individual’s digital identity and cannot be reassigned without the owner’s consent.
In the landmark decision delivered on March 19, 2026, the court noted that phone numbers are closely tied to sensitive personal data, including financial transactions, social media accounts, and private communication, and are therefore protected under the right to privacy.
Key Highlights of the Ruling

No automatic recycling: Telecom companies are barred from reassigning inactive phone numbers arbitrarily.
Consent required: A number can only be given to a new user with clear and verifiable consent from the previous owner.

Strict process: Where the owner cannot be reached, providers must issue public notices and allow a reasonable waiting period before any reassignment.

Data protection: Telcos must ensure new users cannot access any personal data linked to the previous owner.

The court emphasized that phone numbers now serve as gateways to essential services such as mobile money, banking, and online accounts. Recycling them without safeguards exposes users to risks like fraud, identity theft, and unauthorized access to private information.