PTA Starts Third Phase of SIM Blocking Operation

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is now entering the third phase of its operation against the illegal use of mobile phone SIM cards.

PTA sources told ProPakistani that now it will permanently close/block all SIMs issued in the names of deceased persons. All SIMs registered in the names of deceased individuals will be blocked if not transferred by October 15.

The regulator has urged to transfer ownership of these SIMs by presenting a valid death certificate to complete the process. Additionally, proof of relationship with the deceased, the original SIM, and proof of the current SIM are also mandatory for the transfer.

According to PTA officials, SIMs issued on expired ID cards prior to 2017 have already been deactivated. Around 70,000 SIMs registered with canceled or fake ID cards have also been blocked to date.