In response to widespread rumors about the potential closure of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) across Pakistan, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has officially debunked these claims, labeling them as “fake news.”
The rumors, which had circulated on WhatsApp and other social media platforms, falsely suggested that ATMs would be shut down due to issues with Long Distance and International (LDI) networks.
In a statement issued on Saturday night, the PTA clarified that there is no ongoing issue with the availability or operation of LDI networks that could impact the financial sector or ATM networks. The authority further emphasized that the operations of LDI licensees, even those with expired licenses, have not been suspended or shut down.
Supporting this clarification, a banking consortium responsible for managing Pakistan’s major e-payment gateway also refuted the false reports, advising the public to disregard such hoaxes and to consult their banks for accurate information.
Earlier in the week, State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) spokesperson Noor Ahmad also confirmed that the claims were baseless and pointed to the consortium’s statement denying the reports.
The rumors had warned of a supposed “ransomware attack” and advised people to avoid using ATMs and online banking services. However, these claims have now been thoroughly debunked by official sources, reassuring the public that banking services remain fully operationan.
