The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced a nationwide ban on the sale of SIM cards between midnight and 6:00 am in an effort to curb the illegal issuance and misuse of unauthorized SIMs.
Under the new directive, all mobile network operators have been instructed to halt SIM sales during these hours to enhance national security and improve transparency in the telecom sector.
The PTA said all authorized franchises, retailers and sales points must strictly comply with the policy, warning that violations could result in legal and administrative action under telecom laws.
Citizens have been urged to purchase SIM cards only from authorized outlets during official business hours and ensure biometric verification is completed before activation.
The authority also encouraged the public to report any violations through the PTA Complaint Management System, PTA CMS mobile app, WhatsApp digital assistant, or toll-free helpline.
According to a PTA spokesperson, the measure aims to strengthen consumer protection, prevent SIM misuse and promote a safer telecommunications environment across Pakistan.
