The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has implemented a significant initiative to curb the issuance of unauthorized SIM cards. The PTA has revised the process for issuing and activating SIMs, extending the activation time for an individual’s second new SIM to seven days, a departure from the previous timeframe of eight hours. The PTA has stated that the issuance and activation of the first new SIM will still occur within eight hours. Additionally, the PTA has indicated that a duplicate SIM card or number can also be issued within the same time frame.
The updated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) concerning SIMs will be enforced starting from January 24. These procedures will be applicable to all operators, customer service centers, franchisees, and retailers. The PTA has announced that the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) will incorporate the new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) into its system.
The PTA has clarified that the decision was made to restrict the issuance of multiple SIMs to a single user within a day. The PTA noted that fraudulent practices, such as the use of fake thumb impressions, are employed to obtain multiple SIMs in a single day. The PTA commented that perpetrators of fraud have been installing WhatsApp using SIMs issued under someone else’s name. PTA officials believe that the implementation of the new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) will contribute to a reduction in cases of forgery and fraud.