ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has started blocking WhatsApp accounts linked to mobile SIMs that are inactive, canceled, or have not been used for a long time.
The move aims to prevent fraud and other illegal activities carried out through such accounts.
The authority had previously instructed users through an awareness campaign to keep their WhatsApp accounts linked to active mobile numbers that are in their own use and over which they maintain control.
The PTA warned in September that WhatsApp accounts linked to inactive SIMs could be blocked because some numbers were allegedly being used for deceptive and other illegal activities.
PTA has advised users to verify their SIM status adding if they have changed their mobile number, they must transfer their WhatsApp registration to the new number as well.
PTA said inactive or canceled mobile numbers can later be issued to another user. “If the previous owner’s WhatsApp account remains registered on the same number, it could compromise account security and create a risk of misuse by an unrelated person.”
“In such a case, the previous user could lose control of his account, while access issues could also arise through the re-issued number.”
The PTA said that action against accounts linked to inactive numbers is aimed at preventing such potential risks and fraud.
PTA instructions on inactive SIMs
PTA has instructed users to move their account to their current mobile number using the Change Number feature in WhatsApp.
A number that is active and under the user’s own control should be used for this process, it advised.
PTA has asked users to contact their mobile company’s franchise or customer service centre to sort out issues related to SIM registration or inactive numbers.
