In response to directives from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), telecommunication companies, commonly known as telecos, have commenced the implementation of SIM disowning charges, effective today, with charges amounting to up to Rs. 200.
The PTA, adamant about addressing the misuse of free SIM cards and curbing their involvement in illicit activities, has chosen not to extend the grace period previously provided for the disowning or return of unnecessary SIM cards. This fee is now applicable nationwide, covering all provinces of Pakistan, including Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan.
Previously, the PTA had encouraged consumers to voluntarily disown or return unnecessary SIM cards without facing charges by December 31, 2023.
It’s important to note that the SIM disowning fee applies specifically to SIM cards with a retention period of less than six months. However, customers will be eligible for a one-time waiver if a SIM card is issued in their name illegally and without their consent.
This decision comes in light of reports received by the PTA, revealing that some users were exploiting the free disowning facility. Allegedly, they were providing SIM cards to unauthorized individuals for use in illegal activities, subsequently disowning the SIM cards once identified, and then obtaining a new SIM card from another provider.
The PTA’s move aims to strike a balance by providing consumers with a fair opportunity to disown unnecessary SIM cards while preventing the misuse of this facility for illegal purposes. As the PTA crackdown intensifies, telecos are at the forefront of implementing these measures to ensure the integrity of mobile services in Pakistan.
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