As of 2023, there are 11 European countries that have banned anonymous pre-paid SIM cards:
* Belgium
* Bulgaria
* Cyprus
* Estonia
* France
* Greece
* Italy
* Latvia
* Malta
* Spain
* Sweden
These countries have implemented the ban in order to make it more difficult for criminals and terrorists to use anonymous SIM cards to communicate. The ban requires that all pre-paid SIM cards be registered with the user's name and address. This information can then be used by law enforcement to track down criminals and terrorists.
There are a few exceptions to the ban. For example, tourists and visitors are still able to purchase pre-paid SIM cards without registering their details. However, they are typically required to provide their passport number or other identification.
The ban on anonymous pre-paid SIM cards has been met with mixed reactions. Some people argue that it is an important measure to protect public safety. Others argue that it is an infringement on privacy and that it does not actually prevent criminals from obtaining anonymous SIM cards.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to ban anonymous pre-paid SIM cards is a complex one. There are both security and privacy concerns to consider. However, the 11 European countries that have implemented the ban believe that the benefits outweigh the risks.
