PTA Tightens SIM Card Sale and Issuance Rules
- Mobile operators held responsible for illegal SIM sales through their networks.
- Biometric verification through NADRA made mandatory for all key SIM-related services.
- Only authorized outlets can issue SIMs under stricter regulatory oversight.
- New measures introduced to curb SIM misuse and identity fraud.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced stricter regulations governing the sale and issuance of SIM cards, directing all mobile network operators to ensure that every SIM issued through their networks is legally processed and properly verified.
Under the revised framework, telecom operators will be held fully accountable for any unauthorized or illegal SIM sales carried out by their franchises, retailers, or other sales channels. The regulator has emphasized that operators must strengthen oversight across their entire distribution network.
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According to the new directives, SIM cards may only be issued through authorized customer service centres, official franchises, and approved retail outlets. In addition, every sales representative involved in SIM issuance must be registered with a unique identification number to improve accountability and traceability.
PTA has also made biometric verification through NADRA’s Biometric Verification System (BVS) using the customer’s original Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) mandatory before activating any new SIM.
The mandatory biometric verification requirement has been extended to a range of SIM-related services, including new SIM issuance, duplicate SIM requests, ownership transfers, SIM disowning, and mobile number portability.
To further combat identity fraud, telecom companies have been instructed to deploy biometric devices equipped with Live Finger Detection technology, enabling the system to identify and reject fake or artificial fingerprints during the verification process.
The regulator has also directed mobile operators to intensify monitoring of franchises and retailers through regular inspections and monthly compliance reviews. Operators must maintain comprehensive records of SIM issuance, biometric verification, and the personnel responsible for processing customer requests.
According to PTA, these enhanced measures are aimed at preventing the illegal sale and misuse of SIM cards, strengthening identity verification, and ensuring full compliance with Pakistan’s telecommunications laws and licensing regulations.
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