The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has announced that a ‘SIM disowning charge’ of up to Rs200 would be applied on SIMs having a retention period of less than six months.

The decision will be effective from January 1, 2024, the PTA said in its statement issued on November 10.

Consumers can check the status of registered SIMs by visiting cnic.sims.pk or sending an SMS with CNIC number (without dashes) to 668, with charges applicable.

The PTA has advised all consumers to disown or return unnecessary SIMs, free of charge, latest by December 31, 2023. “By doing so, consumers can avoid SIM disowning charge and contribute towards responsible usage of SIMs.”

Moreover, a one-time waiver against the SIM disowning charge would be granted in cases of illegal SIM issuance without the knowledge or consent of the consumer.

Last year, the PTA launched an enhanced version of the biometric verification system to thwart the sale of fake SIM cards.

“With this decision, PTA stays committed to national safety and security while ensuring uninterrupted quality services to all telecom consumers,” it said.