The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced new security measures aimed at preventing illegal SIM issuance and unauthorized registrations in Pakistan. According to a public advisory issued on May 24, 2026, the authority has extended the SIM disowning period from 60 days to 365 days.
The move is part of PTA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen telecom security and protect citizens from identity misuse linked to illegal SIM activation.
SIM Disowning Period Increased to 365 Days
Previously, mobile users could disown a SIM card within 60 days of activation. Under the new policy, a newly activated SIM can now only be disowned after one full year of activation.
PTA stated that the decision was taken to reduce fraudulent SIM registrations and discourage misuse of biometric verification systems. The authority believes that stricter controls will help improve transparency and reduce illegal telecom activities.
PTA Advises Citizens to Stay Vigilant
The telecom regulator has urged citizens to exercise extreme caution while providing biometric verification for SIM issuance. Users are advised to ensure that only personally used SIM cards are registered against their Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC).
PTA warned that careless biometric verification could lead to unauthorized SIM registrations, which may later create legal or security complications for citizens.
How to Check SIMs Registered Against CNIC
To help users protect their identities, PTA encouraged the public to regularly verify the number of SIMs registered against their CNIC.
Citizens can check registered SIMs by visiting the official SIM information portal or by sending their CNIC number without dashes via SMS to 668. This service allows users to monitor unauthorized or suspicious SIM registrations linked to their identity.
Report Unauthorized SIM Registrations Immediately
PTA has also advised users to immediately contact their respective mobile operators if they detect any unauthorized or suspicious SIM registration.
The authority emphasized that public cooperation is essential in combating illegal SIM issuance and ensuring a secure telecom environment across Pakistan.
