The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has advised citizens to keep their Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) updated to avoid any disruption in mobile phone services.
In a social media statement, the PTA said it is working to ensure uninterrupted mobile connectivity nationwide and urged users to renew their identity documents on time. The authority warned that SIM cards registered against expired CNICs or under another person’s name could be blocked without prior notice.
To prevent inconvenience, citizens were encouraged to promptly renew expired identity cards and ensure their SIM registration details are accurate. The PTA noted that the initiative is part of its efforts to safeguard consumer rights and maintain reliable telecom services across the country.
Earlier, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) advised mobile users to activate a free service that helps stop unexpected balance deductions, according to reports.
In a statement issued on March 19, 2026, in Islamabad, PTA said users can lose balance when their internet package finishes, but mobile data continues to run on expensive pay as you go rates.
To prevent this, telecom companies offer a free “balance save” or pay as you go blocker service.
This service automatically turns off mobile data once the package is used up. And this will protect the remaining balance.
PTA asked users to activate the service using the following codes:
- Jazz: *275#
- Zong: *4004#
- Ufone: *6611#
- Telenor Pakistan: *342#
The authority said that this step will help users avoid extra charges and better control their mobile data usage.
5G services officially launched
One of the most popular SIM carriers in Pakistan, Zong, has officially launched its 5G services across more than 16 cities in Pakistan after securing its license.
According to the details, the cities include some of the major cities of Pakistan, including the Federal capital, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, and Quetta, a spokesperson confirmed.
The company further announced its plans to begin a new era of high speed internet in the country.
Also read: PTA warns of unexpected data charges: see free protection codes
