PTBP Web Desk

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a strong public warning after a fake notification claiming a reduction in mobile phone taxes began circulating widely on social media platforms. The authority clarified on Thursday that no decision has been made to reduce mobile phone taxes or import duties, and that the viral posts are completely misleading.

According to the PTA, the false notification caused confusion among mobile phone buyers and retailers, many of whom believed that the government had reduced levies on imported devices. Officials stressed that all official announcements related to mobile phone taxes, import regulations, or telecom policies are communicated only through PTA’s authorized channels and not through social media forwards or unverified messages.

The regulator urged citizens to avoid acting on such misinformation and to verify any telecom-related updates directly from PTA’s official website or social media pages.

In its clarification, the telecom regulator described the online claims as false, misleading, and potentially harmful to consumers. PTA officials said such fake notifications are often used by scammers and unethical sellers to manipulate customers into making rushed purchases.

The authority emphasized that the public should not rely on screenshots, forwarded messages, or unofficial “government letters” circulating online, as these are frequently fabricated. The PTA also reminded consumers that changes in tax policy fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and are always announced through official government notifications.

For verified information, citizens were advised to visit the PTA official website (external link): https://www.pta.gov.pk

In a separate but important development, the PTA has also rolled out a new SIM protection program for overseas Pakistanis, aimed at preventing mobile numbers from being blocked during long stays abroad. The initiative is part of the regulator’s effort to ensure uninterrupted telecom services for the Pakistani diaspora.

Under the program, overseas Pakistanis can retain ownership of their mobile SIMs by informing their respective cellular service providers and paying a small fee for a specified duration. This facility allows subscribers to keep their numbers active even if they are not using them regularly while living or working abroad.

The PTA said the initiative was introduced after receiving repeated complaints from overseas citizens whose SIMs were blocked due to prolonged inactivity, causing inconvenience and loss of important contacts.

The telecom authority issued clear guidelines for both prepaid and postpaid users to ensure their SIM cards remain active:

• Prepaid subscribers must use their SIM at least once every 180 days. This can be done by making a call, sending an SMS, or using mobile data.
• Postpaid users must ensure timely payment of monthly line rent and any outstanding bills to avoid disconnection.
• Overseas Pakistanis who cannot meet usage requirements can apply for the SIM retention facility through their mobile operator by paying the applicable charges.

This program is expected to benefit millions of Pakistanis living abroad who rely on their local SIM numbers for banking, family communication, and digital verification.

Alongside its warning on fake tax notifications, the PTA has also renewed its alert regarding fraudulent calls and fake UAN numbers. In a recently released awareness video, the authority revealed that scammers are impersonating PTA, FIA, banks, and other government institutions to steal personal data from unsuspecting citizens.

According to the PTA, scammers often call or message users claiming that their SIM will be blocked, taxes are due, or accounts need verification. They then ask for sensitive information such as OTP codes, PINs, CNIC numbers, or biometric verification, which are later used for fraud.

The authority clearly stated that no government organization ever asks for OTPs, PINs, identity card numbers, or biometric information over phone calls or messages. Citizens were urged to immediately disconnect such calls and report them to their mobile operators.

The PTA strongly advised the public to rely only on official government channels for verification of telecom-related information. Users were encouraged to check announcements on PTA’s official website and verified social media accounts before making any financial or personal decisions.

The regulator also encouraged citizens to educate family members, particularly the elderly and young users, who are often targeted by digital scams.

For guidance on telecom fraud prevention, users can also consult the Federal Investigation Agency Cyber Crime Wing

The latest fake notification episode highlights the growing challenge of digital misinformation in Pakistan, especially in sectors like telecom and taxation where changes directly affect consumers. Experts warn that unchecked spread of fake news can lead to financial losses, data theft, and erosion of trust in institutions.

By issuing timely clarifications and launching awareness campaigns, the PTA aims to strengthen public confidence and promote safer digital practices.

As Pakistan’s telecom regulator, the PTA plays a critical role in protecting consumer rights, ensuring service continuity, and maintaining digital security. From combating scams to safeguarding SIM ownership for overseas Pakistanis, the authority is expanding its focus beyond regulation to public awareness and consumer protection.