PTA releases guidelines to help mobile phone buyers avoid fraud

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued an important alert to help citizens avoid fraud and legal complications when purchasing mobile phones. The authority’s new guidelines shared widely on social media, aim to educate buyers on how to steer clear of cloned or duplicate devices.

Here are the key guidelines provided by the PTA:

1. Avoid Suspiciously Low Prices: Do not purchase expensive devices at unusually low prices or without a proper warranty.
2. Purchase Box-Packed Devices: Always buy mobile phones that come in their original, sealed packaging.
3. Check for PTA Stamp: Verify the presence of the PTA stamp on the box before completing the purchase.
4. Verify IMEI Numbers: Ensure that the IMEI number on the box matches the IMEI number on the phone itself.
5. Use Verification Tools: To check the authenticity of a mobile device, visit PTA’s verification site, or send the IMEI number to 8484 via SMS, or use the DVS app available on both the Play Store and the App Store.

If buyers find that a mobile device is non-compliant, they are advised to contact the vendor and report the issue to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).

By following these guidelines, buyers can better protect themselves from fraud and ensure they are purchasing legitimate devices.