ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in partnership with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), has launched a major crackdown against illegal mobile activities, including IMEI tampering and phone cloning, in Abbottabad and Haripur.
According to reports, joint teams carried out raids at multiple mobile repair shops in Haripur. The targeted locations included areas near Fowara Masjid in Mochi Bazaar and spots along Main GT Road.
During the operations, authorities seized a large cache of items. These included cloned mobile phones, laptops, desktop computers, USB devices, and even a DVR system.
Officials confirmed that three suspects were arrested on the spot for their involvement in illegal mobile practices. They were handed over to the NCCIA for detailed investigation.
The PTA highlighted that IMEI tampering and mobile cloning are not only unlawful but also pose severe risks to national security. Such illegal mobile activities can fuel cybercrime, financial fraud, and other criminal offenses.
Reiterating its strict stance, PTA warned that there will be zero tolerance for those engaged in tampering or cloning. Citizens have been urged to immediately report suspicious activities so that action can be taken under the law.
This crackdown shows stronger cooperation between telecom regulators and cybercrime investigators to safeguard Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and ensure secure mobile communication.
Earlier, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also took notice of mobile SIM data leaks. Following his directives, NCCIA formed a special team to investigate the issue from all angles. The culprits will face strict legal consequences, and the inquiry report will be submitted within 14 days.
Through these combined efforts, authorities aim to curb illegal mobile operations and protect the rights of legitimate users.
In other news read more about: PTA Cracks Down on illegal Internet Service Providers
