The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) issued a warning on Friday about phishing and fraudulent links circulating on Whatsapp, social media, and through text messages. These deceptive messages falsely claim to be associated with PTA’s Device Identification Registration & Blocking System (DIRBS). The scam messages purport to convey official communication, alleging the user’s SIM is involved in “suspicious activities,” prompting them to check the number of SIMs at a provided link. Another variant threatens phone registration suspension unless the user visits a given link.

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The telecom regulator has stressed that these tactics aim to trick individuals into clicking on malicious links, putting their personal information at risk. The public is strongly advised against clicking on links from unknown numbers or senders. PTA encourages residents to report such phone numbers and links for blocking through PTA’s complaint management system using the toll-free number.

Furthermore, PTA urges the public to stay vigilant and prioritise using its official platforms to safeguard personal information. To lodge complaints or check the status of their devices, users should visit the PTA website or send an SMS to 8484 from their mobile devices.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 23^rd , 2023.

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