The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a public advisory warning citizens across Pakistan to remain vigilant against fake calls and fraudulent messages that are being circulated through spoofed or false Universal Access Numbers (UANs).
The advisory, dated January 7, 2026, highlights that scammers are impersonating representatives of government departments, banks, NCCIA, and mobile wallet services such as Easypaisa and JazzCash in an attempt to steal users’ personal and financial information.
According to PTA, these fraudsters often claim that a user’s SIM card, bank account, or mobile wallet is at risk of being blocked. They then pressure victims into sharing sensitive information including one-time passwords (OTPs), CNIC details, ATM PIN codes, biometric data, or banking credentials through phone calls, SMS, or malicious WhatsApp links.
The authority has strongly cautioned the public not to respond to such requests, emphasizing that no legitimate government agency, bank, or financial institution asks for personal or financial details over calls or messages.
PTA reiterated that citizens should never disclose confidential information under any circumstances, even if the caller claims to be from a trusted organization. The advisory reminds users that scammers commonly exploit fear tactics and urgency to trick individuals into revealing sensitive data, which can later be used for identity theft or financial fraud.
The authority has urged mobile users to immediately report suspicious calls or messages instead of engaging with them. Complaints can be lodged directly through PTA’s official complaint portal at complaint.pta.gov.pk or by calling the PTA complaint helpline at 0800-55055. Citizens may also report cyber fraud incidents to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) via complaint.nccia.gov.pk for further investigation and action.
PTA further encouraged the public to verify information only through authentic and official sources, avoid clicking on unknown links, and remain cautious when contacted by unknown numbers claiming affiliation with financial or regulatory bodies. The advisory forms part of PTA’s ongoing efforts to enhance consumer awareness, strengthen digital safety practices, and combat rising cases of cyber and telecom-based fraud across the country.
By issuing this warning, PTA aims to protect consumers from financial scams and promote safer communication practices as digital transactions and mobile financial services continue to grow in Pakistan.