Islamabad, Feb 11: In a decisive move against illegal mobile SIM card distribution, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing have launched a nationwide crackdown on unauthorized sellers. This operation aims to curb fraudulent telecommunications activities and bolster national security.
Authorities conducted synchronized raids across multiple cities, including Abbottabad, Skardu, Peshawar, Lahore, and Sialkot, dismantling networks involved in the unlawful sale of pre-activated international SIM cards. These SIMs, often used for illicit activities such as cybercrime, financial fraud, and untraceable communications, pose a severe risk to public safety. During the operation, several suspects were apprehended, and a significant cache of illegally activated SIM cards was seized.
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PTA and FIA have intensified their surveillance of the unauthorized SIM trade, recognizing its potential to facilitate criminal activities like identity theft, abduction, and online scams. By enabling anonymous communication, these illegally sold SIM cards create challenges for law enforcement agencies in tracking illicit operations.
The authorities have urged citizens to remain cautious and report any suspicious SIM sales to the relevant authorities. To prevent the unauthorized distribution of mobile connections, stringent regulatory measures are being enforced, and those caught violating the law will face strict legal consequences.
The government, in collaboration with telecom regulators and law enforcement agencies, remains committed to ensuring that mobile network services operate within the legal framework. By strengthening monitoring mechanisms and enforcing stricter compliance protocols, they aim to eliminate unauthorized SIM usage and safeguard the public against digital fraud and security threats.
