PTA and NCCIA Crack Down on Illegal SIM Activations in Karachi

In a significant move to curb identity fraud and cybercrime, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) have launched a joint crackdown on illegal SIM activations in Karachi.

The operation targets mobile retailers and dealers involved in unauthorized SIM registrations that have been linked to fraudulent activities, digital scams, and illegal financial transactions.

Teams from PTA and NCCIA, along with local law enforcement agencies, carried out surprise inspections at multiple locations across Karachi. During the raids, several illegal SIM registration setups were uncovered and seized.

“This crackdown is part of our ongoing efforts to secure Pakistan’s digital ecosystem and protect citizens from online scams and fraudulent activities,” said a PTA spokesperson.
“Individuals involved in unauthorized SIM activations are being identified and strict legal action is being taken against them.”

According to NCCIA, illegally registered SIMs are frequently used for:

• Banking frauds and online scams

• Harassment and blackmail through anonymous numbers

• Terrorism-related communications

• Bypassing national security protocols

By tightening controls on biometric verification systems, PTA aims to reduce the availability of such SIMs and enhance digital security nationwide.

The PTA has issued strict directives to all mobile network operators and franchise owners to ensure compliance with SIM registration policies.

• Any retailer found issuing SIMs without proper biometric verification will face license suspension.

• Offenders may also face heavy fines, business closures, and even criminal charges under cybercrime laws.

The NCCIA has also set up a dedicated reporting portal for citizens to report suspicious SIM activations and digital fraud attempts.

To further enhance cybersecurity and consumer protection, PTA is taking additional measures, including:

• Strengthening real-time biometric verification

• Integrating SIM registration databases with national identity records

• Monitoring suspicious SIM activations through advanced AI-based systems

• Launching public awareness campaigns to educate users about digital safety

Authorities have urged citizens to:

• Check registered SIMs against their CNIC using the PTA SIM Information System

• Avoid sharing personal information with unknown callers

• Immediately report suspicious SIM activity via the NCCIA complaint portal

These steps aim to reduce online fraud cases and protect citizens from digital identity theft.

The joint crackdown by PTA and NCCIA on illegal SIM activations in Karachi marks a major step toward securing Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and protecting citizens from cybercrime.

With stricter enforcement, advanced monitoring systems, and public awareness campaigns, authorities are determined to eliminate fraudulent SIM registrations and ensure a safe digital ecosystem for everyone.

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