PTA to Block SIMs Linked to Expired CNICs

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a warning to mobile phone users to ensure their Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) are valid and updated to avoid the suspension of their SIM cards. In a statement released on May 11, 2026, the telecom regulator announced that SIMs registered against expired, cancelled, or deceased individuals’ CNICs are being blocked.

The PTA stated that these measures are intended to strengthen digital security and prevent the misuse of mobile connections. To avoid disruptions in mobile services, the authority urged citizens to renew their identity documents through the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA).

Phased Implementation of SIM Blockage

The crackdown is being carried out under a phased policy approved during a high-level meeting at NADRA headquarters. The meeting was chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.

According to the approved decision, the blocking process will occur in the following stages:

• First Phase: SIMs registered to CNICs that expired in 2017 or earlier will be blocked.
• Subsequent Phases: The authority will target SIMs linked to CNICs that were cancelled after 2017.

The policy mandates that only valid and active CNICs will qualify for the issuance and continuation of mobile SIMs.

Security and Verification Objectives

The PTA emphasized the importance of maintaining uninterrupted mobile connectivity and advised all users to keep their identity information current with their respective mobile operators. The regulator further urged consumers to complete the verification and activation of their CNIC records through NADRA to ensure continued access to secure communication services.

The crackdown was aimed at preventing the misuse of SIMs registered to deceased individuals or holders of expired identity documents.

NADRA chairman

The operation is part of a broader effort to clean up the mobile subscriber database and eliminate connections that lack valid legal identification, thereby reducing the potential for fraudulent activity associated with inactive or expired identity records.