The Ministry of Information and Communications has levied a 70 million dong fine on GTel and a 17 million dong fine on EVN Telecom for breaking rules on controlling pre-paid mobile subscribers.

VietNamNet Bridge – The Ministry of Information and Communications (MoIC) has levied a 70 million dong fine ($3,500) on GTel and a 17 million dong ($800) fine on EVN Telecom for breaking rules on controlling pre-paid mobile subscribers.

S-Fone has also violated the rules on managing pre-paid subscribers, but the firm is explaining the case to MoIC and has not been fined yet.

MoIC is checking the management of pre-paid subscribers at Viettel through mid-August. After that, the ministry will inspect VinaPhone and MobiFone.

MoIC’s Vice-Chief Inspector remarked this is the first time mobile operators have been fined for mistakes in managing pre-paid subscribers.

MoIC will work with the Public Security Ministry to seek measures to control information of pre-paid mobile subscribers in Hanoi, HCM City and Da Nang, because these cities account for over 50 percent of total subscribers.

By the end of June 2010, Vietnam had 151 million mobile and fixed subscribers, including over 80 percent of mobile subscribers. Up to 90 percent of mobile subscribers used pre-paid services.

All pre-paid mobile subscribers have completed personal information registration, but, according to MoIC, only 30 percent provided accurate information.

Ha Phuong