The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has imposed new restrictions on SIM sales nationwide. The authority has suspended the sale of SIM cards during late-night hours as part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal SIM activity.
According to an official statement, all mobile phone operators must stop SIM sales from 12 am until 6 am every day. The PTA introduced the decision to strengthen regulatory compliance and reduce the misuse of unauthorized SIM cards.
Officials said the move will help authorities monitor telecom activities more effectively. At the same time, the decision aims to improve consumer safety and strengthen trust in Pakistan’s telecom sector.
Under the new instructions, all authorized franchises and retail outlets must strictly follow the updated timing rules for SIM sales. The PTA warned that companies or retailers violating these directives will face legal action under telecom laws and regulations.
Furthermore, the authority stressed that the new policy applies nationwide. Therefore, every registered SIM outlet must ensure compliance without exception.
The PTA also advised citizens to purchase SIM cards only from approved sales centers. In addition, users must complete biometric verification before activating any SIM card. Officials believe this process will help prevent fraud and reduce illegal telecom activities.
Meanwhile, authorities encouraged the public to report violations immediately. Citizens can file complaints through the PTA Complaint Management System, the PTA CMS mobile app, the PTA Digital Assistant, WhatsApp number 0315-0055055, or the toll-free helpline 0800-55055.
The latest restrictions on SIM sales come at a time when authorities continue efforts to improve cybersecurity and digital monitoring in Pakistan. Officials believe illegal SIM usage often contributes to fraud, scams, and unauthorized online activities. Therefore, regulators want tighter control over the telecom market.
Moreover, the PTA said the decision reflects its commitment to building a secure, transparent, and reliable communication system nationwide. Officials also emphasized that stronger monitoring can protect users from identity theft and illegal misuse of mobile connections.
Telecom industry observers believe the new SIM sales policy may also improve accountability among retailers and franchise operators. As a result, authorities expect stricter documentation and better customer verification practices in the future.
The PTA continues to introduce new measures to improve digital security and regulate telecom operations more effectively throughout Pakistan.
