ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced that it will block all non-registered mobile phones across the country.
The regulator started a high-alert campaign to discontinue unregistered devices from running on Pakistani networks.
Officials indicate that employing an unregistered phone is not only dangerous, but it may also result in legal issues.
PTA indicated that registration of mobile phone devices is essential for individual safety and national protection.
PTA points to alarming dangers associated with unregistered devices:
- Threats to national security
- Employment in financial scams and cyber offences
- Illegal importation of unsafe mobile devices
- Purchase or sale of unregistered phones is a criminal offense, and law enforcement officials are taking it seriously.
Time is almost up for mobile phone users. Any unregistered phone will soon be permanently blocked from Pakistani networks.
How to Register Mobile Phone in Pakistan
Find Your Device’s IMEI Number Dial *06# on your phone. For dual-SIM phones, you will be shown two IMEI numbers.
Then Check Your Device Status. To check via SMS: Send your IMEI number to 8484.
To check online: Go to the DIRBS PTA Portal and put in your IMEI to see if it’s already registered.
Second step is to register Your Device at the DIRBS Portal: https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs
Sign Up: Create an account with your CNIC/NICOP/Passport number, email, and phone number.
Log in using your credentials. Apply for CoC (Certificate of Compliance): Input your IMEI number(s) and apply.
Pay Taxes
Online banking, ATM, or authorized bank branches.
Your device will receive an SMS or email that it’s registered.
Verify Registration: Send IMEI number to 8484 or check through the DIRBS portal to verify successful registration.
- Overseas Pakistanis: One handset in a year can be registered tax-free if imported as accompanied baggage and registered within 60 days of entry.
- Visitors/Foreign Nationals: Temporary registration for up to 120 days without tax.
- Dual-SIM Handsets: Register both IMEI numbers.
- Unregistered Handsets: Will be suspended from Pakistani networks.
