The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has uncovered the widespread use of UK-registered SIM cards in Pakistan for serious crimes, including child pornography and financial fraud. Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, FIA Cyber Crimes Additional Director General Waqaruddin Syed highlighted the alarming rise in the illegal trade of international SIMs, emphasizing that cybercrime remains a complex and evolving challenge.
According to Syed, these unauthorized SIMs—primarily from the United Kingdom—are widely available in Pakistan due to their pre-activated status, making them easy tools for criminal activities. He noted that these SIM cards are being openly sold in local markets and through online platforms, allowing perpetrators to conduct illegal activities with minimal traceability.
In response to this growing threat, the FIA Cyber Crime Wing has launched a nationwide crackdown on the unauthorized distribution and usage of international SIMs. The investigation revealed that these pre-activated UK-based SIMs are being used for various cybercrimes, including child exploitation, financial fraud, and even terrorist communications. Syed stressed that such unregulated digital channels pose a direct threat to Pakistan’s national security and law enforcement efforts.
Further emphasizing the severity of the issue, Syed pointed out a major bust in January 2025, when the FIA successfully intercepted an attempt to smuggle 6,700 foreign SIM cards into Pakistan. The suspect, identified as Mohammad Zohaib, was apprehended at Multan International Airport upon his arrival on flight QR-618 from Doha. FIA officials discovered the stash of illegal SIMs during a baggage search and immediately transferred the suspect to the FIA’s Cyber Crime Wing in Multan for further investigation.
Authorities confirmed that the suspect will be investigated under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, which criminalizes the use of technology for illicit purposes. The FIA reaffirmed its commitment to cracking down on cybercriminal networks and dismantling illegal operations that exploit digital loopholes for malicious intent.
The agency is also urging the public to be cautious of such unauthorized SIMs and to report any suspicious online activities. As digital fraud and online exploitation continue to rise, law enforcement agencies are intensifying efforts to combat cybercrime and ensure a safer digital environment for Pakistani citizens.
This latest development underscores the critical need for stronger cybersecurity regulations, improved digital identity verification systems, and greater public awareness regarding the dangers of unregulated telecom services. The FIA has vowed to continue its crackdown on illegal SIM networks and work with international partners to curb cross-border cybercrime.
