The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has warned users across the country that unregistered or unapproved mobile phones may soon be deactivated from the network. According to the agency, a large number of mobile phones are in use on which customs duty or tax has not been paid, due to which they are available to the general public at a low price.
The PTA explained that under the DIRBS system, only those mobile phones that are formally approved and registered can be operated on the network. Unapproved devices can be switched off at any time, so citizens should register in time.
According to the authority, users can dial *#06# to find out the 15-digit IMEI number of the mobile, while it is also possible to check the mobile status through the PTA website or by sending an SMS to 8484.
The directive further stated that buying unregistered phones is not only a legal violation but can also be blocked at any time, so such phones should be completely avoided.
The PTA has advised citizens to register their phones before deactivation so that connectivity is not disrupted. The agency said that responsible digital citizens should buy only certified and approved devices.
