ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has warned that mobile SIMs remaining inactive for six months will be blocked.
According to the regulator, telecom operators are authorized to deactivate SIMs that show no usage for 180 consecutive days. Any SIM without outgoing or incoming calls, SMS activity, or mobile internet usage during this period will be classified as inactive and suspended.
Moreover, the PTA clarified that once a SIM is blocked due to inactivity, the associated number may be reassigned to a new user. After reallocation, the previous subscriber will lose all legal claims to the number. Therefore, the authority has urged mobile users to ensure periodic usage of their SIM cards to avoid permanent deactivation and reassignment.
Steps for Local and Overseas Users
Meanwhile, the PTA has also introduced measures to protect SIMs belonging to overseas Pakistanis. Earlier, the authority launched a dedicated initiative allowing expatriates to keep their mobile numbers active while staying abroad. Under this program, subscribers can inform their respective cellular companies and pay applicable charges to secure their SIMs for a specified duration.
The initiative aims to ensure uninterrupted access to telecom services and help overseas citizens stay connected with family members in Pakistan. Additionally, the PTA has issued clear guidelines for different categories of subscribers.
Prepaid customers are advised to use their SIMs at least once every 180 days by making a call, sending an SMS, or using mobile data. In contrast, postpaid users must pay monthly line rent and clear outstanding dues on time to retain their connections.
Separately, the PTA has warned consumers about scam calls and fake UAN numbers. In an awareness campaign, the authority stressed that no government body ever asks for OTPs, PINs, CNIC numbers, or biometric details.
