The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced that cellular mobile operators in Pakistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) may impose a “SIM Disowning Charge” of up to Rs. 200 on SIMs with a retention period of less than six months, effective from January 1, 2024.

To check the status of registered SIMs, consumers can use various methods, including visiting the SIM Information System website or sending an SMS with a CNIC number (without dashes) to 668.

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The PTA has advised all consumers to disown or return unnecessary SIMs, free of charge, by December 31, 2023, to avoid SIM disowning charges and contribute to responsible SIM usage.

A one-time waiver against the SIM disowning charge will be granted in cases of illegal SIM issuance without the knowledge or consent of the consumer.

The PTA emphasized its commitment to national safety and security while ensuring uninterrupted quality services for all telecom consumers.