No Government Body Seeks OTPs or CNIC Details via Calls or Messages, Says PTA
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has advised the public to remain vigilant against fraud carried out through fake calls and UAN numbers.
In an awareness video issued by the authority, PTA warned that fraudsters are impersonating various government institutions, including the PTA, FIA, and banks, to obtain users’ personal and financial information.
The authority clarified that no government department ever asks for one-time passwords (OTPs), PIN codes, CNIC numbers, or biometric details through phone calls or messages.
PTA urged consumers not to respond immediately to such calls or messages and to verify any information only through authentic and official sources.
PTA Urges Responsible SIM Usage, Warns of Legal Action Over Misuse
Mobile phone users have also been advised to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.
Earlier, PTA had also raised awareness about the responsible use of SIMs and telecommunication services. According to the authority, using a SIM registered in someone else’s name is a violation of rules and regulations.
PTA emphasized that full responsibility for any misuse of a SIM or mobile connection rests with the registered user. The statement noted that the registered subscriber is accountable for all calls, messages, and data usage made through their SIM or device.
The authority appealed to the public to comply with all relevant laws and regulations, warning that legal action may be taken in case of violations.
