The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is launching a fresh crackdown on fraudulent telecom activities. To achieve this, the regulator is introducing facial verification for all current subscribers and those buying new SIM cards. This new system serves as an additional layer of biometric verification. Furthermore, it aims to enhance subscriber identification and authentication. Consequently, PTA expects this measure to significantly reduce the misuse of mobile connections.
Moreover, PTA plans to implement a centralized blacklisting system for SIM sale channels. This system will enable the regulator to take stricter action against retailers and outlets involved in irregularities. In addition, the authority is considering the rationalization of these sale channels. This move will help PTA exercise better control over the network selling and activating mobile connections. Meanwhile, the regulator is also strengthening the process for issuing duplicate SIMs. Therefore, authorities can prevent unauthorized issuance and illegal use of mobile connections.
These planned measures follow a continued campaign against fraudulent telecom activities. Previously, during the period of July 2025 to June 2026, PTA took significant actions. For instance, the regulator blocked 768 mobile numbers and 707 IMEIs. Additionally, authorities blacklisted 11 CNICs linked to fraudulent activities. During this same timeframe, the PTA issued official warnings to 2,497 subscribers.
Ultimately, these latest enforcement actions, including facial verification for SIM cards, indicate a strategic shift. PTA is now tightening controls directly at the SIM issuance and sales stage. As a result, PTA hopes to prevent the misuse of mobile connections for illegal activities. Simultaneously, this shift will strengthen the overall subscriber verification mechanism.
