Islamabad: Pakistan’s telecom regulator PTA has warned mobile phone users to ensure that all SIM cards in their possession are registered in their own names, saying the use of SIMs issued to other individuals violates the law and may trigger legal action.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) issued the notice as part of its ongoing effort to curb misuse of mobile connections and strengthen accountability across the telecom sector.
Use of another person’s SIM deemed illegal
According to the PTA, using a SIM card registered in someone else’s name constitutes a legal violation.
In such cases, the authority said, full responsibility for any misuse including calls, messages or internet activity rests with the individual whose name appears on the SIM registration.
As a result, the PTA urged users to verify their SIM ownership and avoid sharing or using connections issued to others.
Users held responsible for all activity
The regulator said all mobile users are personally responsible for the lawful use of their telecom connections.
This includes compliance with rules governing voice calls, text messages and mobile data usage. The PTA warned that violations may lead to legal proceedings under existing laws.
PTA Director Kashif Ghafoor said the warning does not represent a new policy but rather a reminder that is issued periodically to protect consumers and maintain regulatory compliance.
“This condition is clearly stated in telecom service agreements,” he said, adding that a SIM must be issued in the name of the person who actually uses it.
Limit on SIM ownership remains
Ghafoor reiterated that under Pakistan’s law, an individual may register a maximum of eight mobile SIM cards under their name.
He stressed that because responsibility lies entirely with the registered owner, consumers should only use SIMs that are officially issued to them.
At the same time, he said no final decision has yet been taken to block SIMs registered in another person’s name, offering temporary reassurance to users.
Verification facility available
To help consumers avoid legal complications, the PTA said it has provided an easy verification mechanism.
Users can send their national identity card number via SMS to 668 to receive details of how many SIM cards are registered under their name.
The authority has urged users to check and verify their SIM information promptly, warning that failure to do so could lead to regulatory or legal issues in the future.
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