The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has warned citizens about a rise in fake calls and fraudulent UAN numbers targeting mobile users nationwide.
In an official awareness video, the regulator said scammers are impersonating the PTA, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), and banks to deceive the public. The authority stressed that no government department ever asks for one-time passwords, PIN codes, CNIC numbers, or biometric data through calls or messages.
The PTA urged consumers to remain alert and verify information only through official government channels. It advised citizens not to share sensitive details under any circumstances, even if the caller appears credible.
The regulator also reminded users to operate only SIM cards registered in their own names. Using SIMs issued in someone else’s name violates telecom regulations. The PTA clarified that the registered owner remains legally responsible for all calls, messages, and data usage associated with the SIM.
Alongside the public warning, the PTA has taken a major policy step to reform Pakistan’s telecom market. On January 7, the authority approved a new Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO) Policy Framework after clearance from the federal cabinet.
The framework allows companies to offer mobile services without building their own networks. Instead, MVNOs will operate through agreements with existing licensed mobile network operators while selling services under their own brands. The move aims to increase competition and expand consumer choice.
Under the policy, MVNOs may design their own packages and marketing strategies. Their infrastructure will focus on customer support and billing systems rather than radio towers or spectrum.
Beware of Spoofed Calls & Fake UAN Numbers!
Scammers are impersonating PTA, FIA, banks, JazzCash & Easypaisa to steal your personal and financial information.
Remember: No official organization will ever ask for your OTP, PIN, CNIC, or biometrics on a call or message.
Stay alert.… pic.twitter.com/fa2ocvsaEs
— PTA (@PTAofficialpk) January 10, 2026The PTA defined an MVNO as a mobile service provider that does not own network infrastructure. Companies must incorporate in Pakistan and register with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan before applying for a licence. Applicants may sign agreements with one or more existing mobile operators.
The MVNO licence will remain valid for 15 years, subject to compliance with PTA rules. Companies must submit a detailed business plan, a technical proposal, and a draft agreement with a parent operator. Any change to these agreements will require prior approval from the regulator.
MVNOs will not be allowed to launch services or collect payments until the PTA issues a formal commencement certificate. Mobile numbers will be issued through parent operators, but MVNOs will remain fully responsible for service quality, billing, customer complaints, dispute resolution, and compliance with national security requirements.
The framework also protects MVNOs by restricting parent operators from reducing or suspending services without prior regulatory approval.
Financial requirements include a one-time nationwide licence fee of $140,000. MVNOs must also pay an annual fee equal to 0.5% of gross revenue. Additional contributions include 1.5% to the Universal Service Fund and 0.5% to the Research and Development Fund after deductions.
The policy sets strict operational deadlines. If an MVNO fails to launch services within one year of receiving a licence, the PTA will terminate it. If an agreement with a parent operator ends, the licence will remain suspended unless the company submits a new agreement within one year.
