Tech Desk 
Aug 30, 2025
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has made an important announcement to enhance the efficiency of its Device Identification, Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) by removing old IMEI records of mobile devices.
However, PTA stated that removing old IMEI records will collectively optimise the overall performance of the DIRBS system and will improve the overall processes.
Originally, DIRBS was established to minimise the illegal importation of mobile phones by promoting tax compliance and transparency. DIRBS allows the PTA and mobile network operators (MNOs) to monitor, register and block devices that do not comply with the regulatory compliance.
The removal of old IMEI records will enhance the speed and performance of the system, which would also benefit the telecom operators and end users.
PTA clarified that this initiative will also encourage the use of mobile phones and that mobile users be incentivised to properly register their devices by paying customs duties and taxes to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for more transparency to create a sustainable digital ecosystem in the country.
According to the DIRBS regulations, any unregistered mobile device will only exist for 60 days; therefore, if the user does not pay the correct duties or taxes in the complied time frame, then the device will be re-blocked from all local networks.
Reaffirming its stance, PTA said it remains committed to strengthening Pakistan’s telecom sector by ensuring that the mobile ecosystem stays robust, transparent, and consumer-friendly.
