The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced that mobile phone SIMs on expired CNICs will be suspended if users fail to renew their expired Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs). This measure is part of the PTA’s ongoing crackdown on illegal SIMs across the country.
In a statement, the PTA clarified that SIMs on expired CNICs, specifically those expired before 2017, will be deactivated. The authority has urged all users with expired CNICs to renew them promptly to prevent their SIMs from being suspended.
The PTA’s operation against illegal SIMs began in earnest earlier this year 2024, with the first phase focusing on blocking fake SIMs and cancelling CNICs of deceased citizens. According to the PTA, over 69,000 illegal SIMs have been blocked since 16 August 2024, as the crackdown continues.
The second phase, currently underway, targets SIMs on expired CNICs, with users whose IDs have not been renewed since 2017 at risk of having their SIMs suspended. The PTA has emphasized the importance of updating identity card information to avoid service interruptions.
Looking ahead, the third phase of the operation will focus on terminating SIMs registered in the names of deceased persons. This comprehensive operation by the PTA aims to curb the misuse of SIMs in illegal activities, including terrorism and financial fraud.
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In addition to its efforts against illegal SIMs, the PTA has also been active in blocking online content that violates various regulations. Over the last three and a half years, the authority has blocked more than 363,000 URLs containing illegal content, including those related to security, sectarianism, and hate speech. The highest blocking rate was observed in the category of unethical content, with a 96.46% success rate.
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As the PTA continues its efforts to ensure the legal use of SIMs and safe online content, it is crucial for users to renew their CNICs and stay compliant to avoid service disruptions.
