ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) – The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has significantly expanded its nationwide campaign against illegal mobile phone connections, blocking more than 1.8 million SIM cards during the first seven months of 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen national security and improve the integrity of the country’s telecommunications network.
According to official data released by the PTA, a total of 1,838,689 SIM cards were blocked between January and July during a series of enforcement measures targeting unauthorized registrations, inactive identity records and illegally imported foreign SIM cards.
The authority said 691,102 illegally registered SIM cards were deactivated after verification processes identified violations of telecom regulations.
Officials explained that the operation forms part of a broader strategy aimed at preventing misuse of mobile phone connections in criminal activities, financial fraud and cybercrime.
The PTA also deactivated 903,230 SIM cards that were registered against the computerized national identity cards (CNICs) of deceased individuals.
Authorities said repeated public awareness campaigns had urged families to ensure that mobile connections registered in the names of deceased relatives were properly cancelled. Despite those warnings, many such SIMs remained active, prompting regulatory action.
In another major enforcement measure, the PTA blocked 244,357 SIM cards registered against expired or cancelled national identity cards.
Officials said maintaining accurate subscriber records remains essential for protecting the telecommunications system from misuse and ensuring compliance with national security requirements.
Alongside the deactivation campaign, the PTA intensified its crackdown on the illegal sale and distribution of foreign SIM cards operating without authorization inside Pakistan.
During the reporting period, enforcement teams carried out 25 raids in different cities, targeting businesses and individuals suspected of illegally selling or distributing foreign mobile connections.
The raids resulted in the recovery of 8,051 unauthorized foreign SIM cards, while 37 suspects were taken into custody for allegedly violating telecommunications laws.
The authority said investigations are continuing to identify wider networks involved in the illegal distribution of foreign SIMs and other unauthorized telecom services.
According to the PTA, illegal SIM cards pose serious risks because they can be used for criminal activities while making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to identify those responsible.
Officials emphasized that accurate subscriber verification remains one of the most effective tools for preventing terrorism financing, cybercrime, extortion, financial scams and other organized criminal activities.
The PTA said it continues to work closely with law enforcement agencies, mobile network operators and the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) to improve the verification process for mobile subscribers.
Telecom companies have also been instructed to ensure strict compliance with biometric verification requirements before issuing new SIM cards to customers.
Industry experts believe regular audits of subscriber records help reduce fraudulent registrations and strengthen public confidence in Pakistan’s telecommunications infrastructure.
The authority urged citizens to verify the number of SIM cards registered against their CNICs through official channels and immediately report any unauthorized mobile connections.
Consumers were also advised not to purchase SIM cards from unauthorized dealers or allow others to register mobile connections using their identity documents.
Officials warned that individuals involved in illegal SIM registration or unauthorized sale of foreign mobile connections could face legal action under applicable telecommunications laws.
The PTA reiterated that enforcement operations will continue across the country as part of its commitment to ensuring a secure, transparent and well-regulated telecommunications sector.
Authorities said future inspections, raids and verification campaigns will be expanded to eliminate illegal SIM usage, improve digital security and support law enforcement agencies in combating criminal misuse of mobile communication services.
The regulator added that strengthening subscriber verification and preventing unauthorized telecom activities remain among its highest priorities as Pakistan continues to enhance cybersecurity and protect the integrity of its national communications network.
