PTA Warns of SIM Blocking on Expired or Inactive CNICs

Islamabad — The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has issued an important advisory for mobile users, warning that SIM cards registered on expired or inactive identity cards may be blocked at any time.

In its latest directive, the PTA stated that SIMs registered in the name of deceased individuals could also be disconnected without prior notice. The authority emphasized that numbers linked to expired Computerized National Identity Cards (CNICs) may be permanently blocked and will not be reissued.

The regulator has urged citizens to immediately renew their CNICs through the National Database and Registration Authority to avoid disruption in mobile services.

According to PTA officials, the move aims to ensure a secure and transparent telecommunications system across the country. The authority also requested NADRA to facilitate users in resolving identity card-related issues promptly.

The advisory further noted that failure to comply with these instructions could result in suspension of mobile services.

Officials highlighted that the policy is also linked to broader telecom regulations. SIMs that remain unused for 180 days may be blocked and later reassigned to new users. This step comes in response to the widespread practice of acquiring multiple free SIMs, many of which remain unused.

The PTA reiterated that timely compliance will help users avoid inconvenience and contribute to a more secure telecom environment.