2 min read
LAHORE: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is allegedly sending voice messages to mobile users, warning them that their phones are illegal and will be deactivated within two hours unless they take immediate action. The message urges recipients to dial ‘9’ for further details. But is this real, or just another scam?
Tech expert Jehan Ara recently took to X (formerly Twitter) to raise concerns about this alarming trend, questioning the legitimacy of these calls. “My phone is registered with PTA, so should I assume this is a scam?” she asked.
Is @PTAofficialpk sending voice messages notifying people that their phones are illegal and will be turned off in two hours and they should dial 9 for details? My phone is registered with PTA so should I assume this is a scam?
— jehan_ara (@jehan_ara) February 17, 2025
The PTA has not issued any official statement confirming such notifications. It is worth mentioning that scammers frequently use fear tactics to manipulate users into dialing fraudulent numbers, which could lead to financial fraud, personal data theft, or malware attacks.
How to Protect Yourself from This Scam
- Verify Directly with PTA – Always check PTA’s official website or social media accounts for any updates regarding device registration.
- Do Not Engage – Avoid pressing any numbers or sharing personal details if you receive such calls.
- Report the Incident – If you receive a suspicious call, report it to PTA or relevant authorities to help prevent further scams.
If your phone is already registered with PTA, there is no reason to believe such messages. This is likely another attempt by scammers to exploit users. Always rely on official sources to verify such claims and avoid falling into the trap of fraudulent schemes.
