In Pakistan, illegible issuance of SIMs is a long-awaiting problem. With the current security situation in Pakistan, it is necessary to take steps to negotiate these problems.
To combat the issuing of illegitimate SIM cards, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has made substantial modifications to the process of purchasing and activating SIM cards.
The new standard operating procedures (SOPs), which go into effect on January 24, are intended to curb people’s abuse of several SIMs in a single day.
This initiative will relatively help in curbing these kinds of gangs who are involved in fraud. Grand operation by FIA and PTA conducted against gangs with illegal possession of SIMs
PTA New Rules for SIM Issuance
Individuals’ second new SIM card will now be accessible and activated within seven days, up from eight hours previously. The first new SIM and duplicate SIM cards will still be provided and activated during the first eight hours.
The new SOPs apply to all mobile operators, customer support centers, franchisees, and merchants. Additionally, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) will incorporate these processes into its system.
Also Read: PTA and FIA Crack Down on Illegal Sims Issuance in Punjab and Sindh
Reasons for the Changes:
The PTA decision comes in reaction to the widespread issuing of many SIM cards to a single user in a short period, which is frequently aided by fraudulent activities such as phony thumb imprints.
The abuse of these SIMs has been related to instances in which fraudsters install messaging apps such as WhatsApp using SIM cards registered in someone else’s name.
The PTA expects the improved SOPs to considerably minimize counterfeiting and fraud in SIM card issuing. By lengthening the activation time for the second SIM, the authorities hope to discourage people from obtaining two SIM cards on the same day through misleading ways.
The move is part of a larger effort to improve telecommunications security and safeguard customers from potential exploitation of their personal information.
As the new processes go into effect, mobile users and industry stakeholders are anticipated to adjust, resulting in a more secure and regulated mobile communication environment in Pakistan.
