The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) declared on Friday that cellular mobile operators in Pakistan, Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) may charge a SIM Disowning Charge of up to Rs. 200 on SIMs that have a retention period of less than six months, effective January 1, 2024.
PTA Orders
PTA states that users can check the status of registered SIMs in a number of ways, such as by going to https://cnic.sims.pk/ or by sending an SMS to 668 with their CNIC number (dash-free) (normal fees apply).
Additionally, it is recommended that all customers return or reject any superfluous SIM cards for free by December 31, 2023, at the latest.
Customers can help promote responsible SIM usage and prevent SIM disowning charges by doing this.
In situations when an illegal SIM is issued without the consumer’s knowledge or agreement, a one-time waiver against the SIM disowning charge would be given, according to PTA.
Safety and Security
It is important to note that the PTA has reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining the safety and security of the country while guaranteeing the continuous delivery of high-quality services to all telecom users with this decision.
Similar to this, the SIM disowning fee is intended to incentivize consumers to handle their SIM cards sensibly, promoting a safer and more effective telecom environment in Pakistan and its surrounding areas.
Advisory for SIM Holders
In addition, customers are asked to act quickly to disavow unneeded SIM cards as soon as the new policy takes effect at the start of the next year in order to prevent further fees and support the group’s efforts to use SIM cards responsibly.
To read our blog on “PTA conducts effective raid against illegal ISP with FIA,” click here.
