PTA Revises New SIM Issuance SOPs

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has implemented significant amendments to its Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for mobile SIM sales and activation to address the surge in illegal activities. The PTA’s official notification reveals a groundbreaking move, extending the buffer time between new SIM sale sessions from 8 hours to an impactful 7 days. These amended SOPs will become effective on Wednesday, January 24, 2024.

Clause 5(j) of the SIM sale and activation procedures through biometric verification has been updated, impacting all telecommunication operators, including Customer Service Centers, Franchisees, Registered Retailers, and Temporary Outlets. The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) will integrate this check into their system.

The PTA is pointing out that there is currently an 8-hour gap between sessions at NADRA. To make the system work better, the regulator has chosen to increase the buffer between successive new SIM sale sessions to 7 days. Under the new SOPs, the sale and activation of a new SIM will now occur after a 7-day interval, while procedures for duplicate SIMs and Mobile Number Portability (MNP) will be completed within an 8-hour timeframe.

The PTA’s rationale behind these changes is to combat the issuance of illegal SIMs through fraudulent means, specifically targeting fake thumb impressions. While the activation of the first new SIM still takes place in 8 hours, the issuance and activation of a second new SIM card now require a 7-day gap. This strategic measure aims to deter individuals involved in the illegal issuance of SIM cards using fake thumb impressions, addressing a critical security concern in the realm of mobile telecommunications.