Scam Alert: PTA warns of scammers selling new SIM cards

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a stern warning against another new scam that is stealing thumbprints, fingerprints, and other biometric information.

Fraudsters, as the PTA says, generally trick unsuspecting individuals, particularly women, by presenting them with free SIMs or imitation schemes of financial assistance to dupe them into giving out biometric information. SIMs thus acquired through such deceit are commonly utilized in criminal acts, such as financial fraud and identity theft.

The PTA reminded citizens that handing over a SIM card with their registered name to someone else is a crime punishable by law. The authority emphasized the fact that everyone needs to be cautious and not share personal information or biometric data with unknown sources.

In a related but distinct move, Meta has partnered with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and learning platform EYEYAH! to introduce an awareness program called “Is This Legit?”. The campaign seeks to enlighten Pakistanis on prevalent online fraud and misleading methods.

The campaign is part of Meta’s wider Asia-Pacific (APAC) initiative, covering over 15 nations, that involves encouraging digital safety and literacy.

Chairman PTA, Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman, appreciated the cooperation with Meta as an extension of the authority’s persistent endeavor to make Pakistan’s online environment safe and well-informed.

He reiterated that awareness regarding scams is critical to safeguard users from the ever-changing modus operandi of cyber scammers.

Dania Mukhtar, Head of Pakistan Public Policy at Meta, said that while Meta actively removes scammers from its platforms, they constantly shift tactics, targeting multiple apps and websites simultaneously. She said:

We recognize that awareness and education are powerful tools. Through this campaign, we aim to help people in Pakistan spot common red flags engagingly, empowering them to stay safe online.

She also expressed gratitude to the PTA for assisting in raising this campaign, pointing to their common goal of empowering users with the information and tools necessary to use the internet safely.