The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is stepping up enforcement against the use and sale of unregistered, tampered, or cloned mobile phones—commonly known as “Patched” or “CPID” devices. These phones often have fake or altered IMEI numbers, which makes them untraceable and non-compliant with Pakistan’s telecom regulations.
Many people unknowingly end up buying these devices, usually from grey markets or online sellers offering phones at suspiciously low prices. But the PTA has now made it clear: whether you knew it or not, using such a phone can lead to serious consequences—including fines, jail time, or both.
PTA’s Device Identification, Registration, and Blocking System (DIRBS) is already in place to identify and disable such phones. And it doesn’t stop there—the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) is also involved, carrying out raids, seizing illegal phones, and pursuing legal action against offenders.
Here’s why it matters: unregistered phones don’t just violate PTA laws. They can compromise your privacy, weaken network security, and even serve as tools for cybercrime and financial fraud. That’s why this issue has moved from being a technical one to a national security concern.
How to Stay Safe:
If you’re unsure whether your phone is PTA approved, check by texting your 15-digit IMEI number to 8484, visiting https://dirbs.pta.gov.pk, or using the official mobile app. When buying a phone—especially from online platforms—look for the “PTA Approved” label or verify it on the spot.
Don’t just chase a good deal. It could cost you a lot more in the long run.
![Pinterest](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://shareable.pk/pta-steps-in-to-take-action-against-patched-and-cpid-phones/&media=https://shareable.pk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Mobile-Phone-Import.jpg&description=PTA starts action against the use and sale of unregistered, tampered, or cloned mobile phones—commonly known as "Patched" or "CPID" devices.){kind=link}