The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has recently issued a warning to consumers regarding the purchase of mobile phones. According to The News, the PTA cautioned individuals to be vigilant when buying devices from the market, particularly against counterfeit or duplicate phones.
In its advisory, the PTA recommended several measures to ensure a safe purchase. Consumers should always acquire phones in their original packaging and verify that the IMEI numbers on the device match those listed on the packaging. Additionally, the packaging should have an official stamp.
To further validate their phones, the PTA suggested that customers use the Device Verification System (DVS) app, send an SMS containing the IMEI number to 8484, or visit the PTA’s official website. These steps can help confirm the authenticity of the device.
The PTA also warned against purchasing high-end phones at unusually low prices or those sold without a warranty, as these could be indicative of counterfeit products. If buyers suspect that they have encountered fraud, they should ensure that the device is in its original packaging, contact the seller, and report any fraudulent activity to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for further investigation.
By following these guidelines, consumers can protect themselves from being misled and ensure they receive genuine products.