To address the surge in illegal activities associated with mobile SIMs, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced significant amendments to its Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for SIM sales and activation through biometric verification. The updated procedures, effective from January 24, 2024, notably extend the buffer time between new SIM sale sessions from 8 hours to a substantial 7 days.
The modified SOPs, outlined in clause 5(j) of SIM sale and activation procedures, apply to all telecommunication operators, including Customer Service Centers, Franchisees, Registered Retailers, and Temporary Outlets. The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) will also integrate this check into its system.
Highlighting the existing 8-hour gap between successive successful sessions at NADRA’s end, PTA aims to enhance system efficiency by increasing the buffer between successive New SIM Sale sessions. Under the new SOPs, the sale and activation of a new SIM will occur after a 7-day interval, while procedures for duplicate SIMs and Mobile Number Portability (MNP) will be completed within an 8-hour timeframe.
PTA emphasizes that these SOP adjustments are geared towards combating the issuance of illegal SIMs through fraudulent means, such as fake thumb impressions. While the activation of the first new SIM still occurs in 8 hours, the issuance and activation of a second new SIM card now require a 7-day gap, strategically deterring individuals involved in the illegal issuance of SIM cards using fake thumb impressions.
