In a major push to safeguard Pakistan’s telecom ecosystem, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in close collaboration with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), has intensified its enforcement campaign against illegal mobile phone activities—specifically IMEI tampering and unlawful SIM card issuance. These recent actions underline the government’s growing resolve to eliminate fraud and misuse within the country’s digital infrastructure.
Two Major Raids Signal Zero Tolerance
In two separate and high-impact operations, the PTA and NCCIA conducted targeted raids on criminal elements involved in exploiting the mobile telecom network.
Hyderabad Raid: Illegal IMEI Cloning Busted
One of the raids was carried out by the PTA Zonal Office in Karachi in collaboration with NCCIA Hyderabad, targeting a mobile phone repair shop located at Chirag Complex, Unit 8, Latifabad, Hyderabad. The shop was allegedly involved in the illegal tampering of International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) numbers—a practice commonly used to bypass tracking, unlock blacklisted devices, or facilitate mobile theft and smuggling.
During the operation, a desktop computer and specialized software used for IMEI cloning were confiscated on-site. Two individuals found to be actively involved in the operation were taken into custody by NCCIA officers for further legal proceedings.
Authorities stated that IMEI tampering not only undermines the security of telecom users but also poses a serious threat to national digital security and law enforcement efforts.
Karachi Raid: SIM Card Fraud Uncovered
In a simultaneous move, NCCIA launched a second raid in Karachi, following a formal complaint by PTA Karachi. This raid targeted a telecom franchise operating near Kiran/Memon Hospital, Gulzar-e-Hijri, Scheme 33. The franchise was accused of issuing SIM cards through unauthorized and fraudulent means, allowing unverified individuals to gain access to mobile networks.
As part of the enforcement action, suspected digital devices were seized from the premises. Two individuals, including the branch manager, were arrested on the spot. An FIR (First Information Report) has been registered, and a full-fledged investigation is currently underway to uncover the depth of the operation and any wider network that may be involved.
National Security Implications
Illegal issuance of SIM cards and IMEI cloning are not just regulatory violations—they pose direct threats to national security, particularly when such devices are used for fraud, cybercrime, terrorism, or extortion. These practices hinder the PTA’s efforts to ensure traceability and accountability across telecom services.
Both PTA and NCCIA have reaffirmed their commitment to rooting out such criminal activities and have urged the public to report any suspicious behavior or unauthorized telecom operations.
Technological Tools and Accountability
According to sources within PTA, enforcement agencies are increasingly relying on advanced tracking software and cyber forensic tools to detect illegal configurations in telecom hardware. These technologies allow authorities to:
- Detect cloned IMEI numbers on live networks
- Track unregistered or suspicious SIM issuance patterns
- Monitor abnormal network behavior for criminal intent
- Map hardware-software anomalies in telecom service providers
The confiscated equipment from both raids will now undergo detailed forensic analysis, and findings may be used to strengthen ongoing investigations and future regulatory policy.
Government’s Broader Digital Strategy
These actions are part of PTA’s broader strategy to protect the integrity of Pakistan’s telecom infrastructure, especially in the face of growing cybersecurity threats. In recent months, the authority has taken steps to:
- Introduce stricter SIM verification processes
- Promote biometric authentication across franchise locations
- Strengthen coordination with law enforcement and cybercrime units
- Launch public awareness campaigns on safe digital practices
PTA has also encouraged telecom users to verify their device IMEI numbers and SIM card records through official channels like DIRBS (Device Identification Registration and Blocking System).
While these raids represent significant victories for law enforcement, the fight against telecom fraud is far from over. Officials are planning routine inspections, compliance checks, and even surprise audits across mobile franchises and repair shops nationwide.
The PTA has emphasized that strict legal action will be taken against any individuals or organizations found violating telecom regulations.
With this continued focus and inter-agency collaboration, Pakistan moves closer to a safer and more transparent digital environment, reinforcing the government’s vision for a secure, tech-enabled future.
