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The use of unregistered mobile phones in Pakistan has become a growing threat to national security, warned the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
A PTA spokesperson stated that these illegal phones are increasingly being used in cybercrimes and financial fraud, prompting urgent action.
The PTA, along with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), has intensified joint operations across the country.
Officials clarified that selling, purchasing, or using fake, cloned, or JV (joint venture) mobile phones is strictly against the law. Anyone involved in these illegal activities faces arrest, prosecution, and confiscation of their devices.
The spokesperson emphasized that under the Cyber Crime Act 2016, the use of unregistered mobile phones in Pakistan is a punishable offense and both individual users and sellers of such devices fall under the act.
Citizens are urged to report any sale or purchase of these phones to the FIA through their online complaint system.
Authorities also confirmed that mobile phones not registered through the Device Identification, Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) will be automatically blocked.
The PTA reiterated the need for public cooperation in identifying illegal sellers and protecting national security.
People can check device registration or file a report via these platforms:
- Report violations: https://complaint.fia.gov.pk
- Verify device status: http://www.pta.gov.pk
