Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has taken action against digital security risks associated with recycled mobile numbers by coordinating with Meta to block 176,000 WhatsApp accounts linked to such numbers. The initiative aims to reduce the possibility of misuse of cancelled and inactive SIMs, which can create opportunities for cyber fraud and unauthorized access to digital accounts. According to PTA, the blocked WhatsApp accounts were originally registered using recycled mobile numbers, and the measure was taken as part of broader efforts to strengthen user protection and improve online safety across Pakistan.
The move follows multiple complaints received by PTA regarding cyber fraud activities involving recycled mobile numbers. The authority identified that some individuals were using WhatsApp accounts connected with recycled SIMs to carry out fraudulent activities, creating risks for both previous and new users of these numbers. To address the issue, PTA engaged with Meta and requested coordinated action against accounts associated with recycled mobile numbers. Following the request, Meta blocked the identified 176,000 WhatsApp accounts. PTA stated that its coordination with Meta has continued to support efforts aimed at improving digital security and responding to complaints related to misuse of communication platforms. During the previous year, Meta resolved 82% of complaints forwarded by PTA, reflecting ongoing cooperation between the two organizations.
As part of the continued security initiative, PTA has shared approximately 10 million recycled mobile numbers with Meta for verification and further action. The data will help Meta identify WhatsApp accounts that remain active on numbers that have previously been cancelled or deactivated by telecom operators. PTA highlighted that recycled mobile numbers represent an increasing digital security concern because accounts linked to these numbers may remain operational even after the original SIM ownership changes. When these numbers are reassigned to new subscribers, there is a possibility that old digital accounts connected to them may create privacy and security concerns. The latest coordination between PTA and Meta focuses on addressing this issue by improving identification and management of accounts associated with recycled numbers.
Telecom operators in Pakistan currently hold approximately 16 million recycled mobile numbers, making the issue a significant consideration for digital safety. To establish a more consistent mechanism for addressing the challenge, PTA and Meta have agreed to continue their coordination through a phased process. Under this arrangement, PTA will provide Meta with 5,000 recycled mobile numbers every month, allowing the platform to review and deactivate WhatsApp accounts connected with those numbers where necessary. The initiative is expected to help reduce the misuse of recycled SIMs and provide additional protection to mobile subscribers. Through continued collaboration between regulatory authorities and technology platforms, PTA aims to strengthen digital trust while supporting safer use of online communication services across Pakistan.
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