ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has launched a nationwide awareness campaign urging mobile users to renew expired or cancelled Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) and update their records with mobile operators to avoid SIM suspension.
According to the PTA, mobile SIMs registered against invalid, expired, cancelled, or inactive identity cards issued by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) may be blocked under existing telecom regu
tions. The authority advised subscribers to renew their CNICs before they expire and ensure that the updated information is reflected in their mobile service provider’s records.
The regulator emphasized that only SIMs linked to valid and verifiable identity documents will remain active. Users who fail to update their information after renewing their CNICs could experience disruption or suspension of mobile services.
The latest campaign is part of the government’s broader efforts to improve digital security and prevent the misuse of mobile connections through fake, expired, or inactive identities. Earlier this month, the Ministry of Interior directed the PTA to implement recommendations made by NADRA to strengthen identity verification across Pakistan’s telecom sector.
According to a NADRA spokesperson, a total of 4,906,611 SIMs will be blocked in phases as part of the initiative. The affected SIMs include those registered against expired identity cards as well as CNICs belonging to deceased individuals.
Officials said the phased verification process is designed to ensure that every active mobile connection is linked to a valid and authentic identity, helping reduce identity fraud, financial crimes, and unauthorized use of mobile services.
NADRA stated that the initiative aims to enhance national security while creating a safer and more reliable digital ecosystem. The move is also expected to improve the integrity of Pakistan’s telecommunications infrastructure by eliminating unverified SIM registrations.
The PTA has urged all mobile subscribers to check the validity of their CNICs and complete the renewal process well before expiry. After receiving a renewed identity card, users should promptly visit their respective mobile network operator to update their registration details.
Authorities reiterated that timely compliance with NADRA SIM verification requirements will help users avoid PTA SIM blockage and ensure uninterrupted access to essential mobile communication services across Pakistan.
