PTA Begins Blocking Fake or Duplicate IMEI number Mobile Phones

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced a new initiative to block mobile phones with fake or duplicated IMEI numbers, aiming to curb the use of illegal devices across the country.

This operation, which started on Tuesday, is designed to ensure that only legitimate and approved mobile phones are used on Pakistani networks.

What’s Happening?

The PTA has kicked off the first phase of this campaign by sending verification messages to all mobile phone users. These messages will ask users to check if their device has a cloned or duplicate IMEI number—a unique identifier for each phone. If you receive this message, you must verify your phone’s IMEI within 7 days. Failure to do so will result in your phone being blocked, meaning it will no longer work on any network.

How to Verify Your Phone:

You’ll receive a text message from the PTA asking you to verify your device.
Follow the instructions in the message to provide your phone’s IMEI number. (You can find your IMEI by dialing *#06# on your phone or checking the device’s settings.)
Once verified, your IMEI will be linked to your SIM card to confirm the device is legitimate.
If you don’t verify within the 7-day period, your phone will be blocked.

What Happens if Your Phone is Blocked?

If your phone gets blocked, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) advises reaching out to the seller of your device for assistance. You can also contact the FIA for support. To avoid such issues, the FIA strongly recommends buying only legal mobile phones that are approved by the PTA and taxed by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

Must Read: PTA Phone Verification Online IMEI Check [Guide]

Tips for Safe Mobile Phone Purchases:

Always buy phones from trusted sellers with proper warranties.
Avoid purchasing devices that seem unusually cheap, as they may be counterfeit.
Before buying, verify the phone’s IMEI number to ensure it’s legitimate and registered.

This initiative by the PTA aims to enhance security, reduce the circulation of illegal devices, and protect consumers from fraud. Stay vigilant and verify your device to keep your mobile services active!