The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) released an important advisory on its official Facebook page, urging mobile users to verify their SIM card ownership to prevent unauthorised misuse by criminals. The PTA’s SIM verification initiative is designed to enhance national security and protect against fraud.
The PTA emphasised that unregistered or illegally acquired SIM cards can facilitate fraudulent activities, criminal enterprises, or terrorism, often using stolen personal information. Users can check their registered SIMs by visiting cnic.sims.pk or by sending their CNIC number to 668. The authority advises users to block unrecognised SIMs to reduce potential risks immediately.
The Pakistan SIM registration drive is part of the Device Identification, Registration, and Blocking System (DIRBS), ensuring mobile devices comply with national security regulations. Recently, the Pakistan Telecom Authority (PTA) blocked 16 YouTube channels, 31 video links, and 32 websites for promoting anti-Pakistan propaganda, thereby helping to protect the digital ecosystem.
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The PTA’s fraud prevention campaign addresses the increasing cybercrime rates, blocking over 2 million illegal SIM cards since 2024. According to The Nation, the DIRBS compliance system has registered 90% of mobile devices. This advisory highlights the PTA’s commitment to maintaining public safety. The focus on mobile security in Pakistan could also shape user behaviour.
