The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has urged citizens to protect their fingerprints when obtaining new SIM cards and accessing telecommunications services.
In a public awareness advisory issued on Friday, November 13, the regulator stressed that biometric information should only be shared with authorised service providers.
The warning aims to prevent the misuse of sensitive personal data and protect mobile users from potential identity-related fraud.
Use Only Authorised SIM Registration Centres
The PTA advised consumers to provide fingerprints only at authorised customer service centres, mobile network franchises and approved sales outlets.
Moreover, citizens should verify the identity of the outlet before allowing anyone to collect their biometric information. The authority also encouraged users to keep a record of the mobile network operator and the outlet they visit.
This record should include the outlet’s name and address. Consumers should also confirm the exact reason for collecting their fingerprints.
Protect Sensitive Biometric Information
Fingerprint data plays an important role in verifying identities during SIM registration and other telecommunications services. However, careless sharing can expose citizens to potential misuse of their personal information.
The PTA therefore advised people against providing biometric details to unauthorised individuals or suspicious outlets.
Furthermore, consumers should remain alert whenever someone requests fingerprints without clearly explaining their purpose.
PTA Steps Up Public Awareness
The latest advisory forms part of the regulator’s efforts to improve digital security and protect telecommunications users.
The authority has repeatedly warned citizens about scams involving personal information and fraudulent requests.
Earlier, the PTA also cautioned people against sharing one-time passwords (OTPs) with callers pretending to represent courier companies.
The regulator continues to encourage responsible handling of sensitive information. Citizens should use verified service channels and avoid unnecessary disclosure of personal data.
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