The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has intensified its crackdown on illegal and unauthorized mobile devices by enforcing its Device Identification, Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS).
This initiative is aimed at preventing mobile phone fraud, trafficking, and other unlawful activities while ensuring all devices in Pakistan are legally registered.
According to PTA, DIRBS automatically detects and blocks mobile phones that have an unregistered International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. Once a device is flagged as unauthorized, it is rendered unusable on local mobile networks, causing inconvenience for users who fail to comply with the registration process.
The system has been designed to safeguard consumers from purchasing smuggled or counterfeit mobile phones. It also helps the government maintain proper records of devices in use, thereby reducing the chances of mobile-related crimes. PTA has advised citizens to verify the IMEI number of any mobile phone before purchasing it to avoid future issues.
Users can check their device’s IMEI status through PTA’s online verification portal or by sending the IMEI number to the dedicated SMS code. If the device is found to be unregistered, owners are required to pay the applicable Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) taxes to legalize the device. Once the tax is paid, the mobile phone can be officially approved by PTA and used without restrictions.
PTA has also urged mobile users to avoid buying phones from unauthorized dealers or unverified sources, as such devices are often not registered with DIRBS. This not only leads to monetary loss but can also result in the permanent blocking of the handset.
The authority reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining Pakistan’s telecommunications integrity by ensuring that all devices operate within legal frameworks. Through DIRBS, PTA aims to promote transparency in the mobile market, protect consumer rights, and support legitimate trade.
For more information on mobile registration, taxes, and IMEI verification, users are encouraged to visit the official PTA website or contact the authority’s helpline.