ISLAMABAD: In a major push to strengthen digital security and curb telecom-related crimes, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has blocked more than 1.838 million illegal SIMs across the country during the first seven months of 2026.
The nationwide campaign, conducted in coordination with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), aims to eliminate unauthorized mobile connections, prevent fraud and improve the verification system for subscribers.
PTA officials said 691,102 illegal SIMs were blocked between January and July 2026 as part of ongoing measures against unregistered and suspicious mobile connections.
The authority also disconnected 903,230 SIMs issued against the CNICs of deceased individuals after repeated warnings regarding their potential misuse.
Meanwhile, 244,357 SIMs linked to cancelled or expired CNICs were blocked to stop the use of invalid identity documents for obtaining mobile services.
As part of the crackdown, PTA and NCCIA have also launched operations against the illegal sale and distribution of foreign SIM cards. During 25 raids conducted in Islamabad and other locations, authorities recovered 8,051 foreign SIM cards and arrested 37 individuals allegedly involved in unauthorized SIM trading.
Officials said the enforcement campaign will continue nationwide, with legal action to be taken against individuals and groups involved in the illegal sale, distribution or misuse of SIM cards.
The PTA said the measures are aimed at creating a safer telecom environment, improving subscriber identification and reducing risks linked to digital fraud and misuse of mobile services.
