PTA Launches Second Phase of SIM Crackdown Targeting Expired CNICs
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has escalated its efforts to combat the misuse of illegal SIM cards with the launch of the second phase of a nationwide crackdown starting September 2, 2024. This phase specifically targets SIM cards registered under expired Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs).
READ MORE: PTA Under Fire for Unauthorized LDI License Changes
In collaboration with the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), the PTA is accessing data on expired or canceled CNICs to identify and block affected SIMs. Consumers are urged to renew their expired CNICs and complete necessary biometric verifications with NADRA to prevent their SIM cards from being blocked.
The crackdown began on August 16, 2024, and has already resulted in the blocking of approximately 69,000 SIM cards associated with canceled or fraudulent identity cards. A third phase of the crackdown is scheduled to commence on October 16, 2024, targeting SIMs registered in the names of deceased individuals. Consumers are advised to transfer such SIMs from deceased individuals’ names to avoid having them blocked.
The PTA emphasizes that illegal use of mobile SIMs, often associated with activities like terrorism and online crimes, will not be tolerated.
