PTA warns WhatsApp accounts not linked to active SIM may be blocked
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Tuesday warned that WhatsApp accounts linked to inactive or unregistered SIMs could become inaccessible if users did not update their details.
In an advisory issued on X, PTA said users must ensure that their WhatsApp accounts were connected to an active and properly registered SIM, stressing that “your digital identity is your responsibility.”
The authority cautioned that accounts linked to blocked, cancelled, inactive or unregistered SIMs could soon face access issues, advising users to verify their SIM registration status and ensure timely biometric verification where required.
آپ کی ڈیجیٹل شناخت آپ کی ذمہ داری ہے۔
اپنے واٹس ایپ سے منسلک غیر فعال یا غیر رجسٹرڈ سمز کی بروقت تصدیق یقینی بنائیں۔#PTA #DigitalSafety #CyberSecurity #WhatsApp #SIMVerification #OnlineSafety #SecurePakistan #PTAOfficial #StaySafe #MobileSecurity #DigitalAwareness #Trending… pic.twitter.com/X2BBQHgG46It further added that users should visit the nearest franchise or customer service centre for SIM verification if needed, urging them to immediately transfer their WhatsApp accounts to an active, "verified SIM in case their current number is no longer functional."
PTA emphasised that users should not wait for unexpected logouts, adding that a mobile number also represented a person’s digital identity.
Last year, Pakistan’s telecom regulator reiterated that all mobile SIM cards must be registered in the name of the person using them, warning that the use of SIMs registered to others violates regulations and could lead to action.
It also advised telecom users to ensure responsible use of their SIMs and clarified that the registered subscriber would be held fully accountable for any misuse.
PTA has consistently urged all citizens to be responsible while using social media and digital platforms.
Read More: SIMs must be registered in user's own name, PTA cautions
The authority has stated that citizens are not to share, disseminate, forward, or upload any unverified, inflammatory, or misleading information/content that may directly or indirectly harm the national interest, public order, or state institutions, said a news release.
All Citizens were encouraged to share, disseminate, forward, or upload information/content which is authentic and based upon official sources and to refrain from spreading rumours and fake news.