PTA has issued a public alert warning consumers about counterfeit mobile phones and urging caution when purchasing new devices. To safeguard buyers, PTA advises purchasing phones only from reputable sellers and ensuring they come with a warranty. It is crucial to check for the PTA stamp on the phone’s box and match the IMEI number with the one inside the phone’s settings menu. The IMEI number is a unique identification number assigned to each device.
PTA emphasizes the importance of buying phones in their original packaging to avoid counterfeit products. Consumers can verify their device’s IMEI number on PTA’s website to confirm whether the phone is PTA-approved. This can be done by visiting http://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/, texting the IMEI number to 8484, or using the official PTA Device Verification System (DVS) app.
The authority also warns against purchasing expensive phones at suspiciously low prices and from vendors who do not offer a warranty. In cases where consumers suspect they have been scammed with a fake phone, PTA recommends contacting the seller immediately and reporting the issue to FIA.
