A couple of months back I received a document which stated that I had to pay a KD 400 fine to a telecom company. It really shook me and made me rush to the firm for details.

I was informed by the firm that an Apple iPhone 4S (with 18 months Internet subscription) had been purchased by someone after submitting a copy of my Civil ID. Though I could not believe what had happened, I realised that it is a clear case of misuse of my Civil ID. I immediately registered a complaint dated 31st October 2012.

The company did not respond to my complaint and has not initiated any action so far to track the person behind this activity.

Shockingly, another 15 more persons from my company became the victims of the same trick. We decided to register a complaint with the police and approached them only to be told that they have almost 300 similar cases.

The police were hesistant to listen to us and refused to file our complaint. We were helpless at that point of time. As we were large in number, our next move was to approach the company officials. But that attempt too went in vain. We could not find anyone who would respond to our complaint.

Facing rejection from everyone we approached, going through such a tough time was indeed a difficult experience.

While urging everyone to visit the telecom firms and check the documents submitted to them, we would like to know for the benefit of all what can be done in such situations.

This is very important for expats since such a fine can result in a travel ban, about which you will come to know only when you try to leave the country.

Name withheld
Answer: It is surprising that neither the firm nor the police took any action on your complaint.
First of all if any police station refuses to file such a complaint you can always approach senior officials at the Ministry of Interior and bring the case to their attention.

Secondly, although it was your Civil ID copy that was used, the company taking it should only receive it from the holder in such transactions. You all can take the case to court and sue this firm for accepting your documents from someone else.

In the meantime you take care not to give your ID Card to just anyone or leave your ID card copies lying around.