The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has urged citizens to check the number of SIM cards registered under their Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) to prevent misuse of personal data. According to PTA, many people are unaware of how many SIMs are linked to their CNIC, leaving them vulnerable to fraud, data breaches, and financial theft.

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The regulator emphasized that a SIM card is more than just a chip — it is a key to a citizen’s digital life. Unauthorized or stolen SIMs can compromise bank accounts, WhatsApp accounts, and other sensitive digital services. To verify the number of SIMs registered under your CNIC, citizens can simply send their ID number without dashes to 668. If any unrecognized SIM appears, it should be immediately blocked.

PTA also warned that telecom operators are legally obligated to block any SIMs registered without the owner’s consent. Citizens are encouraged to monitor their SIM registrations regularly, especially before online banking or digital transactions, to prevent misuse and potential financial losses.

Authorities stressed that proactive monitoring can significantly reduce risks of identity theft and digital fraud, reinforcing the importance of citizens taking personal responsibility for their digital security.