The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has warned mobile phone users against the illegal use of foreign SIM cards, citing risks to personal and financial data.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has warned mobile phone users against the illegal use of foreign SIM cards and urged them to protect their personal and financial information.
In a statement, the PTA said that the use of foreign SIMs is not only illegal but can also cause serious problems for users.
Calls and messages made through such SIM cards may compromise personal and financial data and could also lead to legal complications.
The authority advised users to always purchase SIM cards from nearby franchises or registered outlets and ensure that the SIM is registered in their own name.
It is worth mentioning that the PTA had recently issued a warning about blocking inactive SIM cards.
According to the authority, mobile operators are authorised to block SIMs that have remained inactive for six months.
SIM cards that have not been used for calls, messages, or internet services for 180 days will be deactivated, officials said.
They added that once blocked, the number may be reissued to another user.
In a social media message, the PTA said that once a SIM is reissued to another customer, the previous user will have no legal claim over the number.
Users have been advised to continue using their SIMs responsibly to avoid inconvenience.
PTA warns inactive SIMs will be blocked
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has warned that mobile SIM cards that remain inactive for six months will be blocked.
Telecom operators can deactivate SIMs that have not been used for 180 days. SIMs with no calls, messages, or internet activity during this period will be considered inactive and may be suspended.
The PTA said that once a SIM is blocked, the number can be given to another user. The previous owner will have no legal claim over it.
Mobile users are advised to use their SIMs regularly to avoid deactivation and losing their numbers.
