PTA Proposes New Rules to Combat Foreign SIM Fraud and Roaming Abuse

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has unveiled draft regulations aimed at curbing foreign SIM fraud and addressing issues related to permanent roaming on Pakistani mobile networks. The proposed rules, known as the International Roaming (Inbound) Regulations, 2026, mandate identity verification for foreign SIM cards and travel eSIMs, while also imposing a 90-day limit on international roaming services.

The PTA’s initiative comes in response to rising concerns over financial fraud, cybercrime, and security risks associated with unregulated foreign SIM usage. According to official documents, the regulations are designed to classify connections as permanent if they exceed the stipulated roaming period, thereby enhancing oversight and accountability in telecommunications.

This move is expected to significantly impact both local and foreign travelers, as it aims to protect consumers from potential scams and misuse of mobile services. By enforcing stricter identity checks, the PTA hopes to foster a safer digital environment, ultimately benefiting the economy and enhancing national security.

The PTA is set to hold consultations with stakeholders in the telecommunications sector to finalize these regulations. The authority encourages public feedback on the draft rules, which are anticipated to be implemented in the coming months, marking a significant step towards modernizing Pakistan’s telecommunications framework.