Vodacom recently launched a simplified solution that allows existing Vodacom customers to self-RICA SIMs from the comfort of their own homes. The Self-RICA app automatically captures and validates customers’ personal details against external trusted sources such as the Department of Home Affairs, biometrics, and Artificial Intelligence, resulting in ultimate convenience for both the customer and Vodacom.
‘Creating a digital society is one of our core pillars in our Vision 2020 purpose. Self-RICA is our way of introducing digital innovation by eliminating the hassle of visiting a store to RICA a SIM. For our customers, we’ve streamlined the process and digitised the journey. ‘This is yet another way we are continuing to drive a digital transformation journey for ourselves and our customers,’ said Jorge Mendes, Chief Officer Consumer Business Unit at Vodacom.
Self-help for TOBI
With just over 5,000 app downloads on the Google Playstore, Vodacom has added another new innovative Self-RICA layer for customers to RICA new Sim cards, following the successful introduction of the ‘Vodacom Self-RICA’ app that we used to assist customers in updating their already existing RICA details. TOBi, Vodacom’s Chatbot on the MyVodacom App, now allows new Vodacom customers to Self-RICA.
Taking a picture, scanning a new prepaid sim card, an ID document or passport for foreign nationals, and recording a video with a unique pin as proof that you are the correct person requesting the Self-RICA is all that is required. All of these identities are verified with the Department of Home Affairs after being compared using artificial intelligence and biometrics. Once verified, the customer can insert the SIM card into any cellphone to activate it, at which point they will receive a welcome message from Vodacom along with their new cellphone number.
How can you ensure that you complete the process successfully?
Make sure you have an ID document on hand before beginning the Self-RICA process. South African nationals should use their green South African ID Book or new ID card, while foreign nationals should use their passport. You will be asked to take photos of your identification documents (ID card, ID Book, or Passport if you are a foreign national) throughout the process, so make sure:
Images are captured in a well-lit environment.
Images are clear and not blurry; they are of high quality.
The image contains details that can be seen.
The data is clearly visible on the document.
Your ID / Passport photo corresponds to the Selfie and Video you took.
Your ID Book or Passport (if applicable) is open.
The image is of your original identification or passport (No photocopies)
Customers can learn more about Self-RICA by visiting Vodacom and selecting Self-Service and Vodacom Self RICA, or by adding “TOBi” [082 009 8624] as a contact on WhatsApp and asking TOBi questions about Self-RICA.
How can I tell if my Vodacom SIM card is Rica?
Dial *111# and then press 1. Option 8 is followed by Option 3. That’s all.
How long does it take for a Rica SIM to become operational?
How long will my service be active after RICA? Services will be operational in 2 hours.
