Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced an immediate suspension of SIM cards registered against expired Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs), in an effort to limit illegal SIM usage and increase national security.alitat The Standard + One Profit by Pakistan Today reports: PTA will focus on SIMs associated with CNICs that have expired since 2017 but have yet to be renewed, to prevent service disruptions. Users are strongly advised to renew their CNICs as soon as possible in order to avoid disruptions of services and service disruptions. In its second phase of its campaign, PTA is targeting SIMs associated with CNICs which expired prior to 2017 but haven’t been renewed promptly by their users; users are strongly urged to renew them promptly in order to avoid service disruptions and service disruptions. LCC +5 News International +5 Profit by Pakistan Today +3 Times of Karachi +3 This initiative follows on the heels of Phase One, launched August 16, 2024 and focused on blocking SIMs linked to fake or cancelled CNICs. Since that date, over 69,000 illegal SIMs have been deactivated based on data provided by NADRA; as per reports in The Standard (+1), ARY NEWS (+3), News International (+3), Express Tribune (5), and Profit by Pakistan Today In the third phase, SIM cards registered under deceased individuals will be transferred by family members by providing proof of death certificate and valid identification documents. Pakistan Press Foundationalitat for their contributions by providing profit to Pakistan Today and Dawn Newspapers as well as Pakistan Press Foundationalitat +2. For Times Of Karachi coverage. +2 The PTA notes that unregistered and improperly registered SIMs can often be exploited to engage in illegal activities such as terrorism and financial fraud, so by linking all SIMs to valid, active CNICs the authority aims to enhance both security and accountability. Users can check their CNIC status and renew expired cards through NADRA’s online platforms or local offices, while Pak ID mobile offers another convenient method of renewal by updating information online and receiving their new ID cards instantly. Times Of Karachi The PTA has initiated a public awareness campaign, sending notifications to affected users and informing them they must update their records to continue uninterrupted mobile service. News International + The Standard = Pakistan Press Foundation. +4 This comprehensive approach underscores the government’s dedication to safeguarding citizens and maintaining communication networks throughout Pakistan.
