PTA Issues Warning on ‘Suspicious Activity’ Phishing Attempts

Staff Report

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a warning on ‘suspicious activity’ phishing Attempts.

The regulator warned the public on Friday about phishing and fraudulent links circulating on WhatsApp, social media, and via text messages.

These links falsely claim to be connected with PTA’s Device Identification Registration & Blocking System (DIRBS). The PTA has noted that these messages, which appear to be official communications, allege the recipient’s SIM is involved in “suspicious activities.”

They urge users to check the number of SIMs registered to them via a provided link. Additionally, another message threatens that the user’s phone registration will be suspended unless they visit a specified link.SECP takes notice of surrogate ads by crypto exchanges and betting platforms

The telecom sector regulator has stated that these tactics are designed to deceive individuals into clicking on malicious links, potentially compromising their personal information.

The PTA strongly advises the public to avoid clicking on links from unknown numbers and senders.

It also encourages residents to report such phone numbers and links for blocking through the PTA’s complaint management system, accessible at the PTA’s toll-free number.

Furthermore, the PTA has urged the public to remain vigilant and to use its official platforms to safeguard their personal information.

For lodging complaints about such fraudulent activities, people can visit the PTA’s website. To check the status of their devices, users are advised to either visit the PTA’s website or send an SMS to 8484 from their mobile devices.