NADRA has withdrawn its proposed facility to allow facial verification through the PakID application for mobile SIM issuance, prompting PTA and cellular mobile operators to review alternative arrangements for the verification process. The development follows a change in NADRA position regarding the use of its PakID application for facial verification during SIM issuance. The facility had been considered as a way to allow customers to complete identity verification through a digital platform instead of relying solely on existing verification arrangements at cellular mobile operator outlets. However, NADRA has now backed out of providing the PakID based facial verification facility for this purpose. The change means cellular mobile operators and relevant authorities will need to consider another mechanism for implementing facial verification requirements associated with SIM issuance. The issue has consequently become a matter of discussion between NADRA, PTA and representatives of the telecom industry as they assess how the proposed verification process can be implemented.
NADRA has reportedly proposed that cellular mobile operators deploy dedicated hardware for facial verification instead of relying on the PakID application. Under this approach, operators would be responsible for establishing the required equipment at their service locations to conduct the verification process. The proposal introduces a different technical and operational requirement for mobile operators, which would need to assess the infrastructure, deployment and associated costs involved. It also changes the earlier expectation that customers could potentially use an existing digital identity application for facial verification. PTA and telecom industry representatives are reviewing the proposed arrangement and its implications for SIM issuance and registration procedures. The discussions are focused on determining an appropriate verification mechanism while considering the operational requirements of cellular mobile operators and the wider process followed by consumers when obtaining mobile connections.
The reversal comes as authorities continue to examine digital identity and biometric verification methods for mobile SIM services. Facial verification can provide another layer of identity authentication, but its implementation requires coordination between identity authorities, telecom regulators and mobile network operators. The choice between an application based system and dedicated operator hardware can also affect how easily consumers access the verification process. A system requiring dedicated equipment could involve additional infrastructure requirements for operators, while an application based approach could offer a different model for customer interaction. The latest development therefore leaves the implementation framework subject to further discussions between the concerned stakeholders. PTA will have to consider the available options as it works with NADRA and the telecom industry on the next steps.
The decision also highlights the practical challenges involved in introducing new digital verification systems across the telecom sector. Any replacement for the proposed PakID facility will need to account for technical requirements, operator infrastructure and the customer experience associated with SIM issuance. NADRA change in position means the previously considered route through PakID is no longer available for the planned facility, while the proposal for dedicated hardware remains under review. PTA and cellular mobile operators are expected to continue discussions on the alternative arrangement before a final implementation approach is established. Further decisions will determine how facial verification is incorporated into SIM issuance and how mobile operators will meet the requirements under the revised framework.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
