PTA has introduced stricter regulations governing the sale and issuance of SIM cards across Pakistan, directing all mobile network operators to strengthen verification procedures and ensure every SIM issued through their networks is legally processed. Under the latest instructions, telecom companies will be held fully responsible for any unauthorized or illegal SIM sales carried out through their franchises, retailers, or other approved sales channels. The move is aimed at improving accountability throughout the SIM distribution process while reducing opportunities for misuse and fraudulent registrations. By placing greater responsibility on operators, PTA intends to ensure that all entities involved in SIM sales comply with existing telecom regulations and licensing requirements. The updated framework also reinforces the regulator’s ongoing efforts to strengthen identity verification and improve oversight of mobile subscriber registration across the country.
According to the new directives, SIM cards may only be issued through authorized customer service centres, official franchises, and approved retail outlets that operate under the supervision of licensed mobile operators. PTA has also made it mandatory for every sales representative involved in SIM issuance to possess a unique identification number, enabling operators to maintain clear records of personnel responsible for customer registrations. In addition, all new SIM activations will only be permitted after successful biometric verification of customers through NADRA Biometric Verification System using the original Computerized National Identity Card. The regulator stated that these requirements are intended to ensure that every new mobile connection is linked to the verified identity of the subscriber before activation, reducing the possibility of unauthorized or fraudulent registrations.
PTA has further expanded the use of biometric verification beyond the issuance of new SIM cards by making it compulsory for several additional mobile services. These include duplicate SIM requests, ownership transfers, SIM disowning, and mobile number portability, ensuring that identity verification remains a mandatory step throughout the lifecycle of a mobile connection. To further strengthen protection against identity fraud, mobile operators have been instructed to deploy biometric devices equipped with Live Finger Detection technology. This technology is designed to identify fake or artificial fingerprints during the verification process, making it more difficult for individuals to misuse stolen identity information or bypass biometric authentication. By introducing this requirement, PTA aims to improve the reliability of customer verification and reduce fraudulent attempts involving manipulated biometric data.
Alongside stricter verification requirements, PTA has directed telecom operators to significantly increase oversight of their franchises and retail partners through regular inspections and monthly performance reviews. Mobile companies have also been instructed to maintain comprehensive records covering SIM issuance activities, biometric verification transactions, and details of sales personnel involved in customer registrations. These records are expected to support stronger compliance monitoring and improve traceability if irregularities are detected. PTA stated that the updated measures are intended to prevent the illegal sale and misuse of SIM cards while ensuring operators comply with telecom laws and licensing obligations. Through tighter monitoring, enhanced biometric verification, and greater accountability across the distribution network, the regulator seeks to strengthen the integrity of Pakistan’s mobile subscriber registration system and reduce opportunities for identity related fraud involving mobile connections.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
