The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) said every SIM must be registered in the name of the person who actually uses it. Using a SIM issued on another person’s CNIC is a clear violation of telecom rules.

According to the regulator, any misuse of a SIM will be the responsibility of the registered owner. This includes calls, messages, internet use, and any illegal activity linked to that number.

The authority stressed that users are individually accountable for all actions made through their SIMs or connected devices. Failure to follow rules may lead to enforcement action.

PTA urged telecom consumers to act responsibly and help protect the security and stability of Pakistan’s telecom system. Responsible use, it said, benefits everyone.

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The warning comes as mobile-based financial fraud and harassment cases continue to rise. In many complaints, SIM owners later claim they were not involved because someone else was using their number.

Pakistan has over 250 million people and about 196 million active SIMs, showing that many users hold multiple numbers.

Under PTA rules, one CNIC can have up to five voice SIMs and three data SIMs for personal use.