Overhauling SIM Card Sales: PTA Extends Waiting Period to 7 Days in Pakistan
Islamabad - 21 January 2024 (Nasir Abbas) : The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has ushered in a significant alteration in the nation’s new SIM card sales procedure, elongating the mandatory gap between sales sessions from 8 hours to a full 7 days. This modification, effective from January 19, 2024, is geared towards mitigating illicit activities linked to mobile phone usage and fortifying national security. Previously, mobile network operators (MNOs) in Pakistan adhered to an 8-hour gap requirement between successive new SIM card sales sessions. Essentially, retailers or authorized agents were restricted from selling a new SIM card to a customer until 8 hours had transpired since their last sale. The revised policy now extends this waiting period to 7 days, necessitating a week-long hiatus for retailers or agents after selling a new SIM card. The decision to prolong the gap between sales sessions by the PTA is underpinned by various concerns: 1) Curbing SIM card fraud. 2)Enhancing national security. 3) Combating money laundering, etc.
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