Tech Desk 
Dec 19, 2024
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has made it easier for citizens to verify the number of SIMs registered against their Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs).
Gadinsider brings you a guide to help you understand how to check SIMs and CNICs, why it’s important, and how to cancel authorised SIMs.
Why check SIMs on CNIC?
The SIM cards became easily accessible for telecom companies like Ufone and Jazz, formerly Mobilink, due to reduced costs in the early 2000s.
However, this convenience resulted in misuse, including illegal activity and fraud.
To address these issues, the PTA initiated the SIM Information System in 2009 to keep a record of the issuance and control of SIMs. Currently, you can only have a maximum of five SIMs registered under your CNIC.
How many SIMs can be registered on one CNIC?
PTA allows a maximum of five SIMs per CNIC to control fraud and misuse. Regularly checking SIMs on your CNIC ensures you remain within this limit and identify any unauthorised numbers.
Methods to check SIMs on CNIC
You can easily check the number of SIMs issued against your CNIC through the PTA website or SMS service.
- Check SIMs on CNIC through the PTA website.
- Follow these steps to check SIMs on your CNIC using the PTA website:
- Visit the official PTA website: https://cnic.sims.pk.
- Enter your CNIC number in the provided field.
- Complete the CAPTCHA to verify you are not a robot.
- Click the “Submit” button.
- The total number of SIMs registered on your CNIC will be displayed.
Check SIMs via SMS
If you prefer using your phone, follow these steps:
- Open the message app on your phone.
- Type your CNIC number without any hyphens (e.g., 1234567891234).
- Send the SMS to 668 (charges of Rs2+tax apply).
- You will receive a message showing the number of SIMs registered against your CNIC.
How to check SIM owner's name?
If you are unsure who a SIM belongs to, especially if it’s an old number, follow these steps:
- Open the message app on your phone.
- Send a blank message to 667.
- You will receive a reply with the name of the SIM owner.
How to cancel SIMs on your CNIC?
If you find that an unauthorised SIM is registered on your CNIC, you can cancel it by visiting the nearest franchise of the telecom operator. Remember to carry your original CNIC for the verification.
What is SIM cloning and why is it dangerous?
SIM cloning occurs when someone copies information from your SIM card without your consent. This gives the perpetrator access to your phone network in an unauthorised way, such that they may intercept your calls, messages, and even other sensitive information. Watch for unusual activities on your phone and immediately report to the authorities.
