PTA Makes Mobile Operators Fully Accountable for Illegal SIM Sales

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has directed all cellular mobile operators to strictly enforce rules governing the sale, issuance, and activation of SIM cards, warning that operators will be held responsible for connections sold through unauthorized or illegal channels.

The directions reinforce the responsibility of telecom companies to ensure that every SIM is issued only after proper identification, biometric verification, and compliance with the regulator’s prescribed procedures.

Under the framework, new SIM cards may only be sold through authorized franchises, customer service centers, and approved retail outlets. Operators are also required to assign a unique identification number to every sales representative involved in SIM issuance.

PTA said the responsibility for any SIM sold through an unauthorized channel would rest with the relevant mobile operator. Companies may also face regulatory action where retailers, franchisees, or sales agents are found violating prescribed procedures.

The regulator reiterated that no new SIM may be activated without verification through the National Database and Registration Authority’s biometric system.

Biometric verification will also remain compulsory for the issuance of duplicate SIMs, transfer of ownership, SIM replacement, and mobile number portability.

Operators have been instructed to use biometric verification devices equipped with live finger detection technology. The measure is intended to prevent the use of fake, artificial or copied fingerprints during the SIM registration process.

Only licensed operators may activate SIM cards, and verification must be conducted through approved biometric devices. Sales outlets are not permitted to retain users’ thumbprints, fingerprint images, or biometric impressions.

Operators Told to Monitor Franchises and Retailers

Telecom companies have also been directed to maintain closer oversight of franchises and retail sellers.

The regulator requires operators to conduct regular monitoring and monthly inspections of sales points to ensure that SIM registration rules are being followed.

Companies must maintain complete records of SIM sales, biometric verification, and related transactions. This includes the identity of sales representatives, details of issued SIMs and records of customer verification.

Any registered retailer found repeatedly violating the rules may be barred from selling SIM cards of cellular operators. Mobile companies may also initiate legal or contractual action against agents involved in illegal sales.

Action Against Non-Compliant Sales Channels

The regulatory framework requires a physical visit by the customer to an authorized sales channel before a SIM can be issued.

Biometric verification must be completed through CNIC details and a live fingerprint scan. Operators are required to ensure that the verification system is capable of detecting copied or artificial fingerprints.

The authority has also stressed that mobile operators remain responsible for the conduct of their dealers, franchisees, and retailers. Failure to properly supervise sales channels may result in penalties and other enforcement measures.

The PTA said the stricter implementation of SIM-sale rules was aimed at preventing identity misuse, illegal connections, and the use of unregistered SIMs in criminal or fraudulent activities.

The regulator’s directions place direct accountability on mobile operators to ensure that SIM cards are issued only through secure, authorized, and traceable procedures.