The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cyber Crime Circle, Lahore, conducted a joint raid on a Ufone franchise in Mianwali, uncovering illegal SIM issuance activities.
During the operation, officials seized 496 digital fingerprint impressions, Biometric Verification System (BVS) devices, two scanners, and a laptop.
The franchise owner was arrested, and an FIR was registered against him for further legal proceedings. The FIA Cyber Crime Circle has launched an investigation to identify additional individuals involved in the illegal SIM issuance network.
This crackdown is part of PTA’s ongoing efforts to curb the misuse of the Multi-Finger Biometric Verification System (MBVS). The illegal issuance of SIMs poses a serious threat to national security, as such SIMs are often used in fraudulent and criminal activities.
PTA remains committed to strengthening SIM registration protocols and taking strict action against those bypassing security measures. Authorities urge the public to report any suspicious SIM issuance activities to help prevent telecom-related fraud and ensure a secure digital environment.
The latest raid reinforces the government’s stance on eliminating unauthorized SIM issuance, demonstrating its commitment to combating cybercrime and telecom fraud in Pakistan.
The successful raid on the Ufone franchise in Mianwali highlights the PTA and FIA’s relentless efforts to combat illegal SIM issuance and telecom fraud. By enforcing strict biometric verification measures, authorities aim to prevent the misuse of unauthorized SIMs in criminal activities.
This operation sends a strong message that violations will not be tolerated, and legal action will be taken against offenders. Moving forward, continued vigilance and public cooperation are crucial to ensuring a secure and fraud-free digital landscape in Pakistan.
Furthermore, the PTA urges telecom operators to strictly adhere to biometric verification protocols and enhance security measures to prevent system breaches. The public is also encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious SIM issuance activities to the authorities. By working together, regulators, telecom companies, and citizens can help create a safer and more transparent telecommunications ecosystem in Pakistan.