PTA Blocked Over 3.2 Million SIMs of Deceased Persons
Many people in Pakistan are using the SIMs of their deceased relatives. This triggers a red flag as these SIMs can be used or even are being used in fraud and scams.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has taken the initiative and blocked over 3.2 million SIMs of deceased individuals.
This was a much-needed action, and it reversed the chances and risk of illegal use of SIM cards.
Collaboration Between PTA and NCCIA
From July 2024 to June 2025, the PTA collaborated closely with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) to enforce actions against the unauthorized issuance and usage of both local and international SIM cards.
This partnership has been essential in identifying and blocking SIMs that were at risk of misuse. This collaboration resulted in 44 raids in 24 cities that brought:
- 5300+ SIM cards
- 99 biometric devices
- 250,000 digital fingerprints
- 71 arrests
The initiative not only curtails the illegal use of SIMs but also protects citizens from becoming victims of fraud and cybercrime.
Crack Down on the Sale of International SIMs
PTA and NCCIA also cracked down on international SIM card selling. During this initiative, 32 enforcement raids were carried out across the country, resulting in significant actions against illegal operators.
Results of the Operation
The crackdown yielded the following outcomes:
- 8,000 SIM cards confiscated
- 46 individuals arrested for involvement in illegal SIM sales
- 83 websites blocked for facilitating unauthorized international SIM transactions
PTA Blocked Inactive and Irregular SIMs
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has intensified efforts to secure the country’s telecommunication network by targeting inactive and improperly registered SIM cards. These measures aim to prevent misuse, fraud, and unauthorized access.
Key actions taken by the PTA include:
- Blocked over 891,000 dormant SIMs that had remained inactive for extended periods.
- Deactivated 783,000 SIMs linked to expired Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs).
- Disabled 69,000 SIMs that were registered using cancelled or impounded CNICs.
- Restricted more than 179,000 SIMs held by foreign nationals, including Afghan PoR and ACC cardholders, to ensure regulatory compliance.
