Friday, April 3, 2026

PTA alerts citizens against using unregistered or misused SIMs

Islamabad: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has reminded mobile users that all SIM cards must be registered in the name of the person using them.

In a statement, the PTA advised consumers to use their SIMs and telecom services responsibly. It warned that using a SIM registered in someone else’s name is a violation of existing rules and regulations.

The authority stressed that any misuse of a SIM will be the responsibility of the person in whose name it is registered. Users were urged to ensure that their SIMs and mobile connections are not misused under any circumstances.

According to the PTA, registered users will be held personally accountable for all calls, messages, and data usage made through their SIMs or devices.

The regulator also called on consumers to follow all applicable laws, cautioning that violations could lead to enforcement action.

In addition, the PTA encouraged telecom users to act responsibly and contribute to maintaining the security, stability, and reliability of Pakistan’s telecommunications network.

In a message shared on social media, the authority reiterated its call for responsible behavior under the campaign #PTAAlert #YourSIMYourResponsibility #UseSIMResponsibly.

Earlier, the PTA had warned citizens against purchasing free SIM cards from unauthorized sources. The authority highlighted a growing scam in which criminals steal biometric data, including fingerprints and thumb impressions, by luring people with fake offers of free SIMs or financial assistance.

The PTA noted that SIMs obtained through such methods are often used for serious crimes, including identity theft and large-scale financial fraud.

Officials emphasized that handing over a SIM registered in one’s own name to another person is a criminal offense punishable under the law.

Citizens were advised to remain vigilant and avoid sharing personal or biometric information with unverified individuals or sources.