Every Pakistani knows the value of their CNIC. But did you know your identity can be misused by someone registering SIMs on your CNIC without your knowledge? Yes, it happens and it’s a growing concern.

With fraud cases, scams, and illegal SIM use on the rise, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has made it easier than ever to track and block any unauthorized SIMs linked to your name. If you want to protect your identity and avoid unexpected legal trouble, this guide is for you.

Let’s walk through everything step-by-step from checking how many SIMs are registered to your CNIC to blocking the ones you don’t use.

How to Check SIMs Registered on Your CNIC

Before you can block unauthorized SIMs, the first step is knowing how many are currently active under your name.

Here’s how to check SIMs on CNIC

1. Go to the PTA SIM Information Website
2. Enter your 13-digit CNIC number (without dashes).
3. Click on “Submit.”
4. You’ll see a list showing how many SIMs are registered against each mobile operator.

You can also check via SMS

1. Send your CNIC number (without dashes) to 668
2. You’ll receive a message listing the number of active SIMs per operator.

Make this a regular habit. Checking SIMs on your CNIC ensures that no one is taking advantage of your identity. The SIM info system is free and works instantly.

Want to know who owns a particular number? Use a SIM owner details tool available through PTA-approved services.

Dangers of Unauthorized SIMs

Having a SIM registered on your CNIC that you don’t use is more dangerous than it sounds.

Here’s why

• It could be used for illegal activities like scams or threats.
• You may become involved in a police investigation for something you didn’t do.
• Fraudsters could link your number to financial crimes or harassment cases.
• Your mobile operator could suspend all services linked to your CNIC in severe cases.

Recently, there have been several reports where individuals were shocked to find multiple SIMs issued on their CNICs used in unauthorized transactions and online fraud. Don’t wait until it happens to you.

How to Block Unauthorized SIMs on CNIC

So you’ve checked your status and found extra or suspicious SIMs? Here’s how you can block unauthorized SIMs on CNIC right away.

File a SIM Deactivation Request via PTA

Visit the official PTA Complaint Management System: https://complaint.pta.gov.pk

1. Choose “Mobile Cellular” as your complaint category.
2. Select “SIM-related complaint.”
3. Enter your personal details and the mobile number(s) to deactivate.
4. Submit your complaint.

This process works for all major mobile operators and is completely free.

Visit the Nearest Franchise

Sometimes, the mobile operator may ask for in-person biometric verification to complete the deactivation. In that case:

1. Visit the nearest franchise of the mobile operator
2. Bring your original CNIC
3. Provide the list of numbers you want to block
4. Complete the thumb verification

Use SIM Registration Portal (Online Method)

You can also use the SIM registration portal to raise concerns about unregistered or unauthorized SIMs. Always keep a live tracker or complaint reference number handy for follow-up.

Tools and Portals You Can Use

Pakistan has made it much easier to manage your SIMs online. Here are the tools available to help you:

PTA Complaint System

The first and fastest way to lodge complaints.

NADRA e-Sahulat

Used for biometric verification.

SMS Shortcode (668)

Check SIMs on the go.

Mobile Operator Apps

Many operators offer SIM management features in their apps.

If you are an overseas Pakistani, some operators allow online verification and blocking via their official websites. Always keep an eye on updates by PTA and NADRA.

Conclusion

Unauthorized SIMs on your CNIC are not just a privacy issue—they’re a legal risk. Anyone could misuse them for scams, fraud, or worse, putting your identity at stake.

That’s why checking and blocking SIMs regularly is essential. Use the official PTA tools and portals to stay in control of your digital footprint.

Always keep your CNIC data secure, and don’t share it freely. A few minutes of caution can save you from months of trouble.

FAQs

How many SIMs can be registered per CNIC?

You can register up to 5 voice SIMs and 3 data SIMs per CNIC across all networks.

What if I find more SIMs than I use?

Immediately block the extra numbers using the PTA portal or contact your mobile operator. It’s risky to leave them active.

Can I block a SIM without going to a franchise?

Yes. You can block extra SIMs online using the PTA Complaint Portal. However, for some networks, biometric verification might still be required.

What happens if I ignore unauthorized SIMs?

You might face legal issues or identity theft. It’s crucial to act fast to avoid misuse.

Can someone register a SIM without my thumbprint?

Technically no, but fake biometric data or outdated systems can be exploited. Always keep track through the PTA SIM info system.

Is this process the same for every mobile operator?

Yes, the guidelines apply across all major mobile operators, but response times might differ.