The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has tightened SIM verification rules in a major new move reported on October 13, 2026, ordering telecom operators to block fraudulently issued SIMs immediately. The changes arrive through the Subscriber Antecedents Verification (Third Amendment) Regulations, 2026, notified as SRO 1519(I)/2026 in the Gazette of Pakistan. The new framework also sets a 60-day deadline for transferring SIM ownership registered in the name of deceased individuals, and forces operators to block SIMs linked to cancelled or confiscated CNICs within five days.
What the New Rules Say
- Fraudulent SIMs: operators must block any SIM reported to have been issued through fraudulent means immediately.
- Deceased holders: NADRA will inform operators when a CNIC or NICOP holder dies; operators must then send SMS alerts to all SIMs registered in that person's name, asking recipients to transfer ownership within 60 days. SIMs not transferred in time will be blocked.
- Cancelled or impounded CNICs: once NADRA shares the information, subscribers must be notified by SMS and the SIMs blocked within five days, unless NADRA updates the document's status in that window. Blocked SIMs can be restored once the authority confirms reinstatement.
- NADRA link: the rules rely on an automated information-sharing system between NADRA and the operators, so verification is no longer a one-time check at the time of sale.
Why PTA Is Doing This
Fraudulently registered SIMs are a long-standing tool for scams, from fake prize messages to mobile-wallet fraud. By tying SIM status directly to NADRA's live records, PTA is closing the gap where SIMs stayed active long after the identity behind them had changed or expired. For ordinary users, the practical message is simple: every SIM you use should be registered against a valid CNIC that belongs to you, and your biometric record at your operator's franchise should be up to date.
What You Should Do Now
- Check your SIMs: send your CNIC number to 668 to see how many SIMs are registered in your name, and close any you do not recognize.
- Renew expired CNICs: a franchise cannot re-verify a SIM against an expired identity card, so renew at NADRA first.
- Transfer inherited SIMs: if a family member has passed away and you use their number, visit the operator's franchise with the death certificate and your own CNIC to transfer ownership within the 60-day window.
- Watch for the SMS: operators must notify you by SMS before blocking, so never ignore a verification message from your network.
If you want to spread the word among family members who still use a deceased relative's number, you can share this guide with a free link shortener so the link is easy to forward on WhatsApp.
Related Development: Onic
In a separate October development, PTA has posted its order directing PTML (the company behind Ufone) to stop new Onic SIM sales and move existing Onic customers to PTML within three months, and PTML has gone to court against the order, according to reporting on October 10, 2026. Existing Onic customers keep their service while the matter proceeds. For phone buyers, the takeaway is familiar: always buy a PTA-approved device and a properly registered SIM, and you can find genuine accessories at the JustMobilePk Store.
FAQ
What is PTA's new SIM blocking order?
Under SRO 1519(I)/2026, operators must immediately block fraudulently issued SIMs, block SIMs on cancelled CNICs within five days of NADRA's notice, and give 60 days to transfer SIMs registered to deceased persons.
Will my SIM be blocked if my CNIC expired?
An expired CNIC breaks the verification chain, so renew your CNIC at NADRA and re-verify biometrics at your operator's franchise to keep the SIM active.
How do I check SIMs registered on my CNIC?
Send your CNIC number (without dashes) via SMS to 668.
Can a blocked SIM be restored?
Yes, once NADRA confirms the identity document has been reinstated or the ownership transfer is completed, the SIM can be restored.
Bottom line: PTA's new rules make SIM verification a living process, not a one-time formality. Keep your CNIC valid, keep every SIM in your own name, and act within the 60-day window if you inherit a number.
