The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has warned mobile phone buyers against purchasing cloned or duplicate mobile devices.

“Always buy phones from reliable retailers and ensure that the phone is under warranty,” the PTA said in a statement and added that people should be cautious when buying mobile devices

The authority advised users to always buy “boxed mobile phones” so that it can be ensured that the IMEI number of the phone matches the number on the box and the box has a valid PTA stamp.

The PTA has instructed users to verify their mobile phones on the website or text the IMEI number to 8484 or use the DVS app.

If any user has become a victim of a scam, they should contact the vendor and inform the FIA, the PTA added.