Complete SIM Security & CNIC Protection Guide Pakistan 2026

Protect Your Identity: Official Methods to Secure Your CNIC and SIM Cards

Every month, thousands of Pakistanis discover unauthorized SIM cards registered on their CNIC—often only after criminals have already used them for fraud. This comprehensive guide shows you exactly how to protect yourself using official, legal methods approved by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).

Why CNIC Security Matters More Than Ever

Alarming Statistics:

• Identity theft in Pakistan increased 300% between 2022-2025
• Each CNIC can have maximum 5 SIM cards legally registered
• Over 40% of Pakistanis don’t know how many SIMs are on their CNIC
• Criminals use stolen CNIC copies to register SIMs for illegal activities

What’s at Risk:

• Your legal identity being used for crimes you didn’t commit
• Bank fraud and financial theft
• Harassment and blackmail
• Criminal investigations involving your CNIC
• Blocked services when exceeding the 5-SIM limit

Official PTA Method: Check Your CNIC (100% Free & Legal)

Method 1: PTA’s 668 SMS Service ✅

Most Reliable Official Method

How to Use:

1. Open your phone’s messaging app
2. Type your 13-digit CNIC number (without dashes)
3. Send SMS to 668
4. Receive instant reply showing total SIMs on your CNIC

Example:

• Type: 3520212345678
• Send to: 668
• Response: “Total SIMs registered: 3”

Cost: Rs. 2-5 per SMS (small fee for official verification)

Benefits:

• 100% accurate official data
• Works for all networks
• Instant results
• PTA-verified information

Method 2: CNIC.SIMS.PK Portal ✅

Free Online Official Service

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Visit Official Website

   • Go to: https://cnic.sims.pk
   • This is PTA’s official portal

2. Enter Your CNIC

   • Input 13-digit CNIC (no dashes)
   • Example: 3520212345678

3. Verify Your Identity

   • Enter your registered mobile number
   • Receive OTP code
   • Enter OTP for verification

4. View Complete Details

   • See all SIMs registered on your CNIC
   • Network operator for each SIM
   • Registration dates
   • Active/inactive status

What You’ll See:

Jazz: 0300-1234567 (Active) - Registered: Jan 2023
Telenor: 0345-9876543 (Active) - Registered: Mar 2024
Zong: 0312-5554321 (Inactive) - Registered: Dec 2021

Advantages:

• Completely free
• Shows detailed information
• Official PTA service
• Can check family members (with permission)

Method 3: Visit Network Franchise ✅

Most Comprehensive In-Person Method

When to Use:

• Need to block unauthorized SIMs immediately
• Want printed records
• Require official documentation
• Found suspicious activity

What to Bring:

• Original CNIC (required)
• Copy of CNIC
• Any relevant phone numbers

What They Can Do:

• Show complete SIM history
• Block unauthorized SIMs immediately
• Update registration details
• Provide official documentation
• Resolve ownership disputes

Network Franchise Locations:

Jazz:

• Helpline: 111
• Available in all major cities
• Same-day blocking service

Telenor:

• Helpline: 345
• Service centers nationwide
• Biometric re-verification available

Zong:

• Helpline: 310
• Express service centers
• Digital documentation

Ufone:

• Helpline: 333
• Customer care centers
• Immediate blocking service

Monthly CNIC Security Checklist

Week 1: Verification

• [ ] Check CNIC using 668 SMS service
• [ ] Verify all SIMs belong to you
• [ ] Check family members’ CNICs
• [ ] Document total SIM count

Week 2: Monitoring

• [ ] Review unusual charges
• [ ] Check for unknown OTPs
• [ ] Monitor bank account activity
• [ ] Watch for suspicious calls

Week 3: Protection

• [ ] Update SIM PINs
• [ ] Enable two-factor authentication
• [ ] Secure CNIC copies at home
• [ ] Shred old CNIC photocopies

Week 4: Education

• [ ] Teach family about CNIC security
• [ ] Share official verification methods
• [ ] Review this checklist
• [ ] Plan next month’s verification

How to Block Unauthorized SIMs (Emergency Response)

Found SIM You Didn’t Register? Act Within 24 Hours

Immediate Action Plan:

Step 1: Document Everything (5 minutes)

• Take screenshots of verification results
• Note all unauthorized SIM numbers
• Write down networks and dates
• Save all evidence

Step 2: Block SIMs Immediately (30-60 minutes)

Visit the network’s franchise with:

• Original CNIC
• Copy of CNIC
• List of unauthorized numbers

They will:

• Verify your identity
• Block SIMs immediately
• Provide blocking confirmation
• Give you official documentation

Step 3: File PTA Complaint (15 minutes)

Online Method:

• Visit: https://complaints.pta.gov.pk
• Create account or login
• Select “Unauthorized SIM Registration”
• Upload evidence
• Submit complaint

Phone Method:

• Call PTA: 0800-55055 (toll-free)
• Available 9 AM – 5 PM, Monday-Friday
• Explain unauthorized SIM situation
• Provide CNIC and SIM details
• Get complaint reference number

Step 4: Police Report (If Needed)

File FIR if:

• SIMs used for crimes
• Financial fraud occurred
• Threats or blackmail received
• Large-scale identity theft

What to Include:

• Your CNIC copy
• Unauthorized SIM details
• PTA complaint number
• Any fraud evidence
• Timeline of discovery

Understanding SIM Registration in Pakistan

Legal Requirements (PTA Regulations)

Every SIM Card Must Have:

1. Biometric Verification

   • Thumb impression at franchise
   • Verified through NADRA system
   • Cannot be bypassed legally

2. Original CNIC

   • Physical card required
   • Photocopies alone not sufficient
   • Temporary CNIC accepted with conditions

3. Complete Address

   • Current residential address
   • Must match CNIC or have proof
   • Updated in system database

4. Valid Contact Information

   • Alternative phone number
   • Email address (recommended)
   • Emergency contact

The 5-SIM Limit Rule

PTA Regulation:

• Maximum 5 SIMs per CNIC nationwide
• Counts across ALL networks combined
• Includes both active and inactive SIMs
• Strictly enforced since 2020

Why This Limit Exists:

• Prevent mass SIM fraud
• Control illegal activities
• Enable better tracking
• Reduce identity theft

What Happens if You Exceed:

• New SIM registrations blocked
• May face account suspension
• Required to deactivate excess SIMs
• Potential legal consequences

Common SIM Fraud Schemes in Pakistan

1. SIM Swap Fraud

How It Works:

• Fraudster claims your SIM is lost
• Gets duplicate SIM issued
• Takes control of your number
• Accesses bank accounts via OTP

Warning Signs:

• Sudden loss of network signal
• Calls/SMS stop working
• Unknown OTP messages
• Bank transaction alerts

Protection:

• Set SIM PIN lock
• Use app-based 2FA (not SMS)
• Register SIM blocking password
• Monitor account regularly

2. Illegal CNIC Registration

How It Works:

• Criminals find lost/stolen CNIC copy
• Use it to register SIMs
• Conduct illegal activities
• Owner blamed for crimes

Warning Signs:

• More than 5 SIMs on your CNIC
• Unknown numbers when checking 668
• Police inquiries about unknown numbers
• Fraud alerts from unknown accounts

Protection:

• Check CNIC monthly
• Mark photocopies: “For [specific purpose] only”
• Report lost CNIC immediately
• Shred old CNIC copies

3. Social Engineering Attacks

Common Tactics:

• Fake “bank” calls requesting OTP
• “PTA official” demanding information
• “Prize winner” needing verification
• “Family emergency” money requests

Red Flags:

• Urgent pressure to act quickly
• Requests for OTP or PIN
• Threats of account closure
• Too-good-to-be-true offers

Defense:

• Never share OTP with anyone
• Banks never call for sensitive data
• Verify caller independently
• Take time to think

Legal Tracking Methods for Your Own Devices

Google Find My Device (Android)

Setup Requirements:

• Google account linked to phone
• Location services enabled
• Internet connection active
• “Find My Device” turned on

How to Track:

1. Visit: https://www.google.com/android/find
2. Sign in with Google account
3. Select your device
4. View location on map
5. Use ring, lock, or erase options

Features:

• Real-time location tracking
• Remote lock capability
• Erase data remotely
• Play sound to find nearby
• Show battery level

Find My iPhone (iOS)

Setup Requirements:

• Apple ID configured
• Find My iPhone enabled
• iCloud account active
• Location services on

How to Track:

1. Visit: https://www.icloud.com/find
2. Sign in with Apple ID
3. Click “All Devices”
4. Select device to locate
5. View location and options

Features:

• Precise location tracking
• Lost Mode activation
• Remote data wipe
• Sound alert
• Route history

Network Family Locator Services

Jazz Family Tracker:

• Subscription: Rs. 5/day
• Track up to 5 family members
• Requires consent of tracked person
• SMS and app-based
• Call 111 to activate

Telenor Family Locator:

• Rs. 3/day subscription
• Location updates every hour
• Consent-based service
• Mobile app available
• Activate via 345

Important:

• All tracking requires consent
• Legal only for own devices/family
• Cannot track strangers
• Violating privacy is criminal offense

Protecting Your CNIC: Best Practices

Physical Security

At Home:

• Store original in secure location
• Use locked drawer or safe
• Keep away from documents you share
• Make only necessary copies

When Sharing:

• Photocopy only when absolutely required
• Write purpose on copy: “For Bank Account Opening Only”
• Include date on marked copy
• Never send clear photos via WhatsApp
• Use secure document apps if digital copy needed

Digital Security

If Digital Copy Needed:

• Password-protect PDF files
• Use encrypted messaging for sending
• Delete after successful submission
• Don’t store in cloud without encryption
• Clear photo gallery periodically

Email Safety:

• Never email unencrypted CNIC
• Use secure file-sharing services
• Verify recipient before sending
• Delete sent items after confirmation

Public Places

When Using Services:

• Watch photocopy process
• Take all copies with you
• Ask for test copies to be destroyed
• Don’t leave copies on counters
• Verify employee credentials

Government Offices:

• Carry only what’s needed
• Make copies at secure locations
• Keep CNIC in direct sight
• Don’t hand to unauthorized persons

What Information Can You Legally Access?

About Your Own CNIC ✅

You CAN Check:

• All SIMs registered on your CNIC
• Network operators
• Registration dates
• Active/inactive status
• Total SIM count

Official Methods:

• PTA 668 SMS
• CNIC.SIMS.PK portal
• Network franchise visit
• PTA helpline inquiry

About Family Members (With Permission) ✅

Legal Requirements:

• Must have their consent
• Need their CNIC physically
• They must be present (for franchise)
• OTP sent to their number

Acceptable Reasons:

• Parents checking minor children
• Elderly parent assistance
• Guardianship situations
• Medical/legal emergencies

About Other People ❌

You CANNOT Legally:

• Check stranger’s CNIC details
• Access someone’s personal information
• Track others without consent
• Obtain addresses or names

Why It’s Illegal:

• Violates privacy laws
• Against PTA regulations
• Covered under PECA 2016
• Can lead to prosecution

Penalties:

• Criminal charges
• Heavy fines
• Imprisonment possible
• Civil lawsuits

Reporting Harassment and Fraud

FIA Cyber Crime Wing

When to Contact:

• Online harassment
• Digital fraud
• Identity theft
• Cyber stalking
• Data breaches

How to Report:

Online Portal:

• Visit: https://complaints.fia.gov.pk
• Create account
• Fill complaint form
• Upload evidence
• Track complaint status

Helpline:

• Call: 1991 (24/7 helpline)
• Free from all networks
• English and Urdu support

In-Person:

• Visit nearest FIA office
• Bring evidence and CNIC
• File written complaint
• Get acknowledgment receipt

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority

Complaint Categories:

• Unauthorized SIM registration
• Network quality issues
• Billing disputes
• Service problems
• Consumer rights violations

Filing Process:

Online:

• Website: https://complaints.pta.gov.pk
• Register account
• Submit detailed complaint
• Upload supporting documents
• Receive tracking number

Phone:

• Helpline: 0800-55055
• Working Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Mon-Fri)
• Urdu and English support
• Get complaint reference

Expected Timeline:

• Acknowledgment: 24-48 hours
• Investigation: 7-15 days
• Resolution: 30 days maximum

Police (For Criminal Matters)

When to File FIR:

• Threats or blackmail
• Financial fraud
• Physical danger
• Criminal use of identity
• Extortion

Information to Provide:

• Complete timeline
• Evidence (screenshots, recordings)
• Witness information
• Suspected person details (if known)
• Your contact information

Follow-up:

• Get FIR copy
• Note case number
• Request investigation updates
• Keep evidence safe
• Document all interactions

Network-Specific Security Features

Jazz Security Services

SIM Blocking Code:

• Set personal blocking code
• Prevents unauthorized duplicate SIM
• Activate at franchise or via 111

Fraud Alert Service:

• SMS alerts for unusual activity
• Free service
• Activate: Send “REG” to 4000

Secure Account:

• PIN protection for customer service
• Prevent unauthorized changes
• Set via Jazz World app

Telenor Protection

Telenor SIM Lock:

• Password-protect SIM replacement
• Free service
• Call 345 to activate

Balance Protection:

• Alerts for deductions over set limit
• Free service
• Configure via My Telenor app

Call Blocking:

• Block unwanted numbers
• Free feature
• Manage in app or call 345

Zong Safety Features

SIM Protection Service:

• Lock SIM against replacement
• Free for all customers
• Activate via 310 or app

Fraud Prevention:

• Auto-alerts for suspicious activity
• International call blocking option
• Manage via Zong app

Ufone Security Options

Number Lock:

• Prevent SIM swap without password
• Free service
• Set at franchise or call 333

Usage Alerts:

• Daily balance notifications
• Unusual activity warnings
• Free SMS service

Teaching Family Members About CNIC Security

For Elderly Parents

Simplified Instructions:

1. Never Share OTP

   • Explain what OTP is
   • Why it’s secret
   • Who legitimately needs it (nobody)

2. Monthly CNIC Check

   • Help them send 668 SMS
   • Explain the response
   • Check together regularly

3. Identify Phone Scams

   • Real banks never call for PIN
   • PTA never demands money
   • Government doesn’t ask for OTP

Create Simple Reference Card:

In Emergency:
- FIA Cyber Crime: 1991
- PTA Helpline: 0800-55055
- Police: 15
- My Number: [Your Contact]

Never Share:
- OTP codes
- CNIC pictures
- Bank PIN

For Teenagers and Young Adults

Key Messages:

1. Social Media Safety

   • Don’t post CNIC online
   • Verify before sharing documents
   • Understand digital footprint

2. Online Shopping

   • Check seller before COD
   • Don’t share CNIC unnecessarily
   • Use secure payment methods

3. Job Applications

   • Verify company legitimacy
   • Mark CNIC copies
   • Question excessive document requests

For Domestic Staff/Drivers

Important Guidelines:

1. Their Own Protection

   • Help check their CNIC
   • Ensure SIMs are properly registered
   • Protect from exploitation

2. Household Security

   • Proper procedures for document handling
   • When to ask questions
   • Who to contact if suspicious

Building Long-Term Security Habits

Daily Practices

Morning Routine:

• Check balance/alerts
• Review overnight notifications
• Verify expected transactions

Evening Review:

• Check day’s activity
• Note any unknown charges
• Report suspicious items

Weekly Habits

Every Monday:

• Review bank statements
• Check SIM balances
• Scan for unusual activity

Every Friday:

• Backup important data
• Update security passwords
• Clear unnecessary digital copies

Monthly Obligations

First Week:

• CNIC verification (668 SMS)
• Family member checks
• Document security audit

Second Week:

• Review subscriptions
• Check service charges
• Verify active services

Third Week:

• Update emergency contacts
• Test backup recovery
• Review security settings

Fourth Week:

• Family security meeting
• Update protection measures
• Plan next month

Annual Reviews

Every January:

• Complete security audit
• Update all passwords
• Review privacy settings
• Check insurance coverage

Every July:

• Verify contact information
• Update emergency procedures
• Review family security training
• Assess new threats

Understanding Your Rights as a Consumer

PTA Consumer Protection Rights

You Have the Right To:

1. Information

   • Clear service terms
   • Transparent pricing
   • Network coverage maps
   • Quality standards

2. Privacy

   • Data protection
   • Consent for information sharing
   • Access to your own data
   • Deletion requests

3. Fair Treatment

   • Non-discriminatory service
   • Reasonable complaint resolution
   • Refunds for poor service
   • Contract enforcement

4. Security

   • Protection from fraud
   • Unauthorized use prevention
   • Emergency service access
   • Data breach notification

How to Exercise Your Rights

File Complaints When:

• Rights violated
• Service quality poor
• Billing errors
• Privacy breached
• Unfair treatment

Escalation Path:

1. Network customer service
2. Network complaint department
3. PTA consumer affairs
4. Legal action (if necessary)

Province-Specific Resources

Punjab

PTA Regional Office:

• Address: 6th Floor, Evacuee Trust Complex, F-5/1, Islamabad
• Phone: 051-9225328

FIA Cyber Crime:

• Lahore: 042-111-342-111
• Rawalpindi: 051-9272526
• Faisalabad: 041-9220989

Sindh

PTA Regional Office:

• Address: Kashmir Block, Civic Centre, Karachi
• Phone: 021-99205252

FIA Cyber Crime:

• Karachi: 021-99203015
• Hyderabad: 022-9201340

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

PTA Regional Office:

• Address: 21-A, Sector F-8/1, Islamabad
• Phone: 051-9109191

FIA Cyber Crime:

• Peshawar: 091-9222370
• Abbottabad: 0992-381693

Balochistan

PTA Regional Office:

• Address: PTA Building, Jinnah Road, Quetta
• Phone: 081-9201772

FIA Cyber Crime:

• Quetta: 081-9202832

Islamabad Capital Territory

PTA Headquarters:

• Address: Headquarters, F-5/1, Islamabad
• Phone: 051-9225328
• Email: complaintspta@pta.gov.pk

Azad Jammu & Kashmir

Contact Through:

• Islamabad PTA office
• Local police stations
• District administration

Gilgit-Baltistan

Contact Through:

• Regional PTA representative
• Deputy Commissioner offices
• Local authorities

Emergency Quick Reference Card

Save This Information

Immediate Threats:

• Police Emergency: 15
• FIA Cyber Crime: 1991
• Women Helpline: 1099

CNIC/SIM Issues:

• PTA Helpline: 0800-55055
• Jazz: 111
• Telenor: 345
• Zong: 310
• Ufone: 333

Quick Actions:

If CNIC Stolen:

1. File police report immediately
2. Send 668 SMS to check SIMs
3. Visit all network franchises
4. Apply for new CNIC at NADRA

If Phone Stolen:

1. Call network to block SIM
2. Use Find My Device
3. Change critical passwords
4. File police report
5. Contact bank

If You Suspect Fraud:

1. Screenshot all evidence
2. Don’t engage with fraudster
3. Block number
4. Report to FIA: 1991
5. Inform your bank

Staying Updated on Security Threats

Official Information Sources

PTA Official Channels:

• Website: https://www.pta.gov.pk
• Twitter: @PTAofficialpk
• Facebook: Pakistan Telecommunication Authority
• Consumer alerts section

FIA Cyber Crime:

• Website: https://www.fia.gov.pk
• Twitter: @FIACyberCrime
• Awareness campaigns

NADRA Updates:

• Website: https://www.nadra.gov.pk
• CNIC security guidelines
• Fraud prevention tips

Trusted News Sources

For Security News:

• ProPakistani (tech section)
• Dawn (technology news)
• The News (cyber security)
• Tribune (digital rights)

Red Flags for Fake Sources:

• Promises to “hack” or “track” anyone
• Asks for payment for “database access”
• No physical address or registration
• Too-good-to-be-true claims
• Spelling errors and poor grammar

Conclusion: Your Security is Your Responsibility

Key Takeaways

1. Check Monthly: Use 668 SMS every month to verify your CNIC
2. Act Fast: Block unauthorized SIMs within 24 hours
3. Stay Legal: Only access your own information through official channels
4. Protect Family: Teach everyone about CNIC security
5. Report Fraud: Use official channels (PTA, FIA, Police)
6. Never Share: OTPs, PINs, and sensitive data stay private
7. Verify Always: Confirm legitimacy before sharing documents

The Only Three Services You Need

1. PTA 668 SMS: Check your CNIC (Rs. 2-5)
2. CNIC.SIMS.PK: Detailed verification (Free)
3. Network Franchise: Blocking and updates (Free)

Everything else claiming to “track” or “reveal” information is either:

• Illegal
• Scam
• Violating privacy
• Misleading

Take Action Today

Right Now:

1. Send your CNIC to 668
2. Count the SIMs
3. Verify they’re all yours
4. Block any unauthorized ones

This Week:

1. Visit CNIC.SIMS.PK for detailed check
2. Set SIM protection passwords
3. Mark all CNIC photocopies
4. Teach one family member

This Month:

1. Check every family member’s CNIC
2. Review security settings
3. Update emergency contacts
4. Create security routine

Share This Knowledge

Security improves when everyone is informed. Share this guide with:

• Family members
• Friends and colleagues
• Domestic staff
• Elderly neighbors
• Social media networks

Together, we can reduce identity theft and fraud in Pakistan.

Legal Disclaimer

This guide provides information about Sim Owner Details legal, official methods for protecting your CNIC and verifying your own SIM card registrations.

Legal Uses:

• Checking your own CNIC
• Verifying your family members with consent
• Protecting against identity theft
• Reporting fraud to authorities
• Using official PTA services

Illegal Activities:

• Tracking others without consent
• Accessing strangers’ personal information
• Stalking or harassment
• Identity theft
• Selling personal data
• Privacy violations

Always use official PTA-approved methods. Respect privacy laws. Report suspicious activities to authorities.

Protect Yourself. Protect Your Family. Use Official Methods Only.