ISLAMABAD: In a notice issued on social media by the telecom regulator, it was revealed that the use of foreign SIM cards not authorized in the country can pose serious threats to the security of the users, as well as result in some data breaches and even possible legal action. This is due to the increasing worry among regulators about foreign SIM cards that can be used without any sort of verification.

PTA Warns Against Foreign SIMs Over Security Risks

PTA has issued a strict warning for all those who indulge in the practice of buying or selling of SIM cards of other countries, and has asked people to guard themselves against all risks associated with their identity and financial data. With warnings about foreign SIM cards from PTA, the regulator is highlighting the dangers of unauthorized mobile usage within the local market.

While PTA warns against foreign SIMs, the organization is strictly instructing its citizens to get mobile SIM cards only from authorized franchises. The organization also made sure to highlight that each and every SIM card must be linked with the real name of the SIM card holder through biometric identity registration. The process ensures that each mobile number is connected to the verified identity to prevent the misuse of SIM cards and mobile numbers.

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Other than the foreign SIM card warning, the PTA has also provided another directive regarding the blocking of mobile connections which have not been used for 180 days continuously. These connections include the SIM cards which do not show any signs of mobile calls, SMS usage, or use of mobile internet for 180 days continuously.

The moment the number is deactivated in line with this policy, the same is open to be assigned to other clients. In this regard, the original user loses all his rights to claim ownership of the number permanently; thus, he cannot claim his number after reassignment. It has been recommended by PTA to keep the SIM active through regular use to prevent service disruption or loss of number.

When viewed in tandem, the two regulations above point towards a greater regulatory effort to exert more control over the telecoms network in Pakistan. In this regard, as PTA discourages the use of foreign SIM cards and strengthens its inactive number regulation, the people are increasingly being advised to make use of legitimate numbers acquired through legitimate means for their protection and continued service usage.