PTA has introduced stricter SIM card issuance rules, making biometric verification mandatory and holding telecom operators accountable for illegal SIM sales.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced stricter regulations for SIM card sales and issuance, requiring mobile network operators to strengthen verification procedures and ensure that every SIM is issued legally. The new measures are aimed at preventing the misuse of SIM cards, reducing identity fraud, and improving compliance with Pakistan’s telecom regulations.
Under the revised policy, PTA has made telecom companies directly responsible for any unauthorised or illegal SIM card sales carried out through their franchises, retailers, distributors, or other sales channels. Operators will now be expected to closely monitor all authorised outlets and ensure they fully comply with regulatory requirements.
According to the new directives, SIM cards can only be issued through authorised customer service centres, official franchises, and approved retail outlets. In addition, every sales representative involved in the issuance process must possess a unique identification number to improve accountability and traceability.
The regulator has also reinforced its biometric verification requirements. Every new SIM card can only be activated after the customer’s identity has been successfully verified through NADRA’s Biometric Verification System (BVS) using the original Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC).
Beyond new SIM activations, biometric verification has now become compulsory for several customer services. These include duplicate SIM requests, ownership transfers, SIM cancellation or disowning, and mobile number portability. PTA believes these measures will significantly reduce fraudulent transactions involving mobile connections.
To further strengthen security, the authority has instructed telecom operators to deploy biometric devices equipped with Live Finger Detection technology. These advanced systems are capable of distinguishing genuine fingerprints from artificial or fake impressions, helping prevent identity theft and unauthorised SIM registrations.
The PTA has also directed mobile network operators to increase inspections of franchises and retail outlets through regular audits and monthly compliance reviews. Companies must maintain comprehensive records of SIM issuance, biometric verification, authorised sales personnel, and customer transactions to support regulatory oversight.
According to the regulator, these enhanced SIM card issuance rules are designed to curb illegal sales, improve public safety, protect consumer identities, and ensure all telecom operators strictly follow Pakistan’s telecommunications laws and licence conditions. The updated framework is expected to strengthen the integrity of the country’s mobile communication system while reducing opportunities for fraud and misuse.
