The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has blocked more than 1.838 million illegal SIMs during the first seven months of 2026. The action forms part of a nationwide campaign against unauthorised mobile connections and telecom misuse.
The crackdown is being conducted in coordination with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). Authorities aim to curb telecom-related fraud, strengthen SIM registration, and improve national security.
According to PTA officials, enforcement measures remained active from January through July 2026. Consequently, authorities blocked hundreds of thousands of unauthorised mobile connections.
Crackdown Targets Illegal SIMs
PTA blocked 691,102 illegal SIMs during the seven-month period. Meanwhile, authorities disconnected 903,230 SIMs registered under the CNICs of deceased individuals.
Officials said repeated warnings were issued before those connections were deactivated. Additionally, PTA blocked 244,357 SIMs linked to cancelled or expired CNICs.
The authority said the measures prevent the misuse of invalid identity documents for obtaining mobile connections.
Joint Raids Recover Foreign SIM Cards
PTA and NCCIA also launched joint operations against the illegal sale of foreign SIM cards. During 25 raids in Islamabad and other locations, authorities recovered 8,051 foreign SIM cards.
Moreover, law enforcement officials arrested 37 suspects allegedly involved in unauthorised SIM trading. Investigations into the network remain ongoing.
PTA said the nationwide crackdown will continue in the coming months. Furthermore, the authority warned that strict legal action will target anyone involved in the illegal sale, distribution, or misuse of SIM cards.
