In a significant move to curb mobile phone fraud and safeguard national security, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), in collaboration with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Karachi, carried out two successful raids targeting illegal IMEI tampering and the sale of patched/cloned mobile phones.
🔍 Raids Conducted at Karachi’s Mobile Markets
The enforcement operations were carried out at:
- Saima Mobile Mall, Rashid Minhas Road
- Rafique Mobile Shopping Center, Quaidabad
The teams seized laptops, desktop computers, and specialized software used in IMEI reprogramming, a practice that is not only illegal but also a major enabler of cybercrime.
👮 Arrests Made and Legal Proceedings Underway
During the raids:
- Three individuals were arrested on-site
- They are currently in NCCIA custody for further investigation and prosecution
The arrests mark a strong stance by the PTA against mobile identifier fraud, a crime that poses serious threats to digital security, including:
- Cybercrimes
- Financial fraud
- Human trafficking and abductions
- Illegal mobile imports and black-market activity
🚫 PTA’s Zero-Tolerance Policy on IMEI Tampering
The PTA reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for any activity related to:
- IMEI tampering
- Cloned or patched devices
- Unauthorized software used in phone manipulation
These actions directly violate telecom regulations and are punishable under Pakistani cybercrime laws.
📢 Public Advisory
The PTA urges the public to:
- Report any suspicious mobile repair shops or retailers engaged in IMEI tampering or patched phone sales
- Avoid purchasing devices from unverified or unofficial sources
🔗 To verify your phone’s IMEI status, visit: https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/
🛡️ Protect Yourself
- Always verify IMEI before purchasing a used or imported mobile phone
- Avoid patched devices as they are often used in illegal activities and may stop working without warning
- Report any violations to PTA’s complaint portal or Cyber Crime Wing of FIA
