ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has intensified efforts to combat mobile fraud, blocking thousands of mobile numbers and devices involved in online scams.
According to PTA officials, 5,294 mobile numbers associated with fraudulent activities were blocked over the past year.
In addition to this, the PTA disabled 4,507 international mobile equipment identity (IMEI) numbers linked to scams and blocked 113 computerised national identity cards (CNICs) used in such activities.
Annual Report Findings
The PTA’s annual report revealed that the authority received 27,351 complaints regarding stolen mobile phones. It also processed 1,818 requests to unblock devices, highlighting its dual role in ensuring security and facilitating legitimate users.
Resumption of Class Licensing for Data Services
Separately, the PTA has resumed issuing class licenses for data services across the country. In a statement, the authority clarified that VPN service providers are now required to obtain a class license to offer VPN and related services.
This follows the November 30 deadline for VPN registration announced earlier by the PTA. However, PTA Chairman Maj Gen (retd) Hafeezur Rehman assured that the authority has no plans to block VPNs, despite possessing the technical ability to do so.
These measures underline the PTA’s commitment to combating fraud and ensuring secure and reliable digital connectivity while facilitating legitimate use of technology and services.
