Islamabad: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued an urgent warning about a dangerous new scam involving free SIM cards and fake financial aid schemes.
According to PTA officials, fraudsters are tricking people—especially women—into giving their thumb impressions, fingerprints, and biometric data by offering free SIM cards or false promises of cash assistance.
Once obtained, these SIMs are registered under victims’ names and later used in criminal activities, including financial scams, identity theft, and online fraud.
The PTA reminded citizens that allowing others to use a SIM registered in your name is a punishable crime. People should never share personal or biometric data with anyone not verified by official channels.
PTA and Meta Launch Awareness Campaign
To fight growing digital fraud, Meta (the parent company of Facebook and Instagram) has partnered with PTA and educational platform EYEYAH! to launch a public awareness campaign called “Is This Legit?”
The campaign aims to educate Pakistanis about online scams and how to spot fake offers or job postings. It is part of Meta’s regional Asia-Pacific (APAC) safety program across more than 15 countries.
PTA Chairman Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman said the collaboration will help build a safer and more informed digital environment in Pakistan.
Dania Mukhtar, Head of Public Policy at Meta Pakistan, said:
“Scammers are constantly changing tactics. Awareness and education are the best defense. This campaign will help people recognize red flags and stay safe online.”
⚠️ Key Safety Tips for Users
-
Never share biometric data with unverified agents.
-
Do not accept “free SIM cards” from unknown people.
-
Always buy SIMs from authorized franchise centers.
-
Immediately report suspicious activity to PTA via complaint@pta.gov.pk or the Citizen Portal app.
