The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a public advisory urging mobile users to ensure that all SIM cards in their name are properly registered. This warning aims to prevent the misuse of mobile connections by unauthorized individuals engaging in criminal or fraudulent activities.
In a recent announcement shared on Facebook, the PTA emphasized the importance of SIM registration, stating that individuals can fall victim to identity theft if their personal details are exploited to obtain SIM cards illegally. These SIMs can then be used for fraud, organized crime, or even terrorism-related operations.
To protect against such risks, the PTA recommends that citizens verify the number of SIMs registered against their Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC). Users can do so by visiting cnic.sims.pk or by texting their CNIC number (without dashes) to 668.
If users identify any SIM card issued in their name that they do not personally use, they are advised to have it blocked immediately to prevent potential misuse. The PTA operates the 668 SIM Information System to facilitate this verification process efficiently and securely.
Additionally, under the Device Identification, Registration, and Blocking System (DIRBS), all mobile devices in Pakistan must be registered to ensure national security and regulatory compliance.
In a separate action, the PTA recently blocked 16 YouTube news channels, 31 YouTube video links, and 32 websites for disseminating anti-state propaganda. The authority said this content aimed to mislead the public, spread disinformation, and disrupt national unity.
According to an official statement, these steps were taken to protect the country’s digital ecosystem and uphold national cohesion.
