Tech Desk 
Aug 06, 2024
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) works to provide high-quality, efficient and cost-effective telecommunication services while protecting users' privacy throughout the country.
Recently, the telecommunication authority has warned users against buying duplicate or cloned mobile devices and announced that such mobile devices will be blocked to prevent illegal activities.
Moreover, to avoid scams, PTA has also asked buyers to follow a set of guidelines.
Read more: PTA, NADRA team up to amplify telecom license applicants' biometric verification
PTA guidelines to avoid scams
Beware of unrealistic deals
PTA has asked users to avoid buying expensive devices suspiciously available at very low prices and without any warranty.
Purchase box-packed phones
Always purchase phones that come in their original, sealed packaging to minimise the risk of buying stolen or non-compliant devices.
Check IMEI and PTA stamp
Before buying a mobile phone always check that there is a PTA stamp on the box in front of the shopkeeper.
Moreover, also ensure that the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number on the box matches the one on the phone itself as this would verify the phone’s authenticity.
How to verify a device from PTA
To verify any mobile device, visit https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk/ and enter the IMEI number to check the phone’s approval status in real-time.
Apart from the above-mentioned method, you can also text the IMEI number to 8484 or confirm a device’s verification status through the Device Verification and Registration (DVS) app downloadable from Play Store or App Store.
By following these guidelines you can stay safe from any kind of fraud, or scams while buying a new mobile device.
