ERBIL, Kurdistan Region of Iraq – Iraq’s Communications and Media Commission (CMC) on Wednesday called on Kurdistan Region-based Korek Telecom users to add an alternative phone number from other operators to their digital accounts to prevent losing access to them when verification messages stop.

In an official document, the body called on Korek SIM card users who rely on their numbers for authentication purposes and logins to social media and other digital platforms “to take the necessary precautions to ensure continued access to their accounts and digital services.”

For platforms that allow the registration of more than one phone number, the CMC advised users to add a number from another licensed operator and use it for verification codes, authentication messages, and account recovery.

Meanwhile, if a platform only allows one phone number, the CMC advised users to replace their Korek number with one from a licensed operator, clarifying “Asiacell or Zain Iraq only.”

The body also encouraged the use of alternative methods of authentication, including email, authenticator apps, and other tools.

“Do not wait until you stop receiving messages; complete these procedures as soon as possible,” it advised.

“These precautionary measures do not encourage users to abandon or cancel their current numbers,” read the CMC document, noting that it instead aims to provide alternative means “to protect their data and rights from the potential consequences of ceasing to receive verification and authentication messages.”

In June, CMC canceled its contract with Korek Telecom and suspended its operations over allegedly breaching “contractual obligations and failure to comply with the requirements stipulated in the agreement.”

Sirwan Barzani, the CEO of the company, criticized Iraqi authorities for the move, describing the move as “unlawful” and noting that a legal complaint would be filed against the responsible party.

In November 2023, Iraq’s CMC blocked all incoming and outgoing communications between Korek and other carriers, citing Korek’s failure to pay its financial obligations. Ever since, the Kurdish telecommunications company has faced disruptions and challenges.