SIM Data to be Shifted to PTA for Authentication & Verification
According to official documents currently, SIMs data processed at Cellular Mobile Operators level is to be shifted to PTA {Pakistan Telecommunication Authority} for Authentication & Verification.
Admitting that grey SIMs card is available currently in the market, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has stated that cases of illegal issuance of SIMs against biometric data of folks,
Who are enticed with meager incentives, have been recently reported and all such cases have been referred to FIA {Federal Investigation Agency}.
Recently PTA documents said that more than 10 cases of misuse of biometric verification system have been reported to FIA with no forthcoming response and results.
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority is reviewing the SIMs sale and authentication process with a view to minimize and eventually eliminate misuse of the Biometric Verification System.
Presently, the complete process is being reviewed in consultation with all stakeholders:
- The dual-factor authentication process is proposed to be implemented.
- Outline and modalities are expected to be finalized in 6 to 8 weeks time.
- Data currently secure at CMOs’ level is to be shifted at PTA’s level for authentication and verification.
- Data/SlMs integrity will be monitored and stored at PTA
- A Data Center will be established and will be equipped with resources including a staff of 10-12 people
As you may know that in 2014, SIM sale through biometric was implemented, SIMs card was activated after the online verification of biometrics (Finger impressions and Thumb).
The sale process for SIMs card was automated and documentation was made electronic and sales channels were uniquely identifiable.
In 2015, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority carried out the re-verification of SIMs issued prior to the Biometric Verification Authority era from Jan to May 2019.
More than 114.9 million SIMs card was verified whereas 98.5 million SIMs card was blocked. Yet grey SIMs card is available in the market.
In order to ensure that Biometric Verification System is not misused, a buffer of 8 hours on each CNIC has been enforced b/w successive Biometric Verification System transactions for all activities such as Brand new sale, duplicate SIM, MNP, and change of ownership.
Read Also: FIA Arrested Man For Trading Bitcoins in Peshawar (SAMAA NEWS)
Unauthorized movement of Biometric Verification System devices will be penalized by respective Cellular Mobile Operators.
You should keep in mind that No SIM card can be disowned before 60 days MSP of issuance,
We will absolutely recommend you guys to read the documents, in order to eliminate misuse of biometric verification through fake fingers.
Current Biometric System devices are being replaced with LEO {Live Finger Detect} devices in a phased manner.
Penalty Matrix upon the misuse of the Biometric Verification System was imposed in parallel with referring all misuse cases to Federal Investigation Authority.
Jazz
- 16 franchises — warning with the penalty of Rs 1.68 million
- 38 franchises – warning issued
- 80 retailers terminated
Telenor
- 5 franchises terminated
- 19 franchises penalized
- 501 retailers terminated
Zong
- 2 franchises terminated
- 60 franchises – warning with penalty of Rs. 0.742 million
Ufone
- 6 franchises terminated
- 98 franchises — strict warning letters with the penalty of Rs. 1.275 million
- 2 franchise – final warning with the penalty of Rs. 0.15 million
- 302 retailers terminated
