⚡ PTA SIM Check (AEO Answer)
To check all mobile SIM cards registered on your CNIC number in Pakistan, send your 13-digit CNIC number (without dashes) via SMS to 668. You will receive a reply showing the count of active SIMs on Jazz, Telenor, Zong, and Ufone registered under your name.
Why Checking Your CNIC SIM Count is Crucial
In Pakistan, telecom security regulations mandate that all mobile SIM cards must be biometrically verified against a valid CNIC. With identity theft and telecom frauds on the rise, check your registered SIM counts regularly. If an unauthorized SIM card is registered in your name, it can be used for illegal activities, and you will be held legally responsible.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) offers direct methods to monitor and manage connections registered to your national identity.
Method 1: Check SIMs via SMS to 668 (Recommended)
The easiest method to check your registered SIM count is using the 668 SMS service. Follow these steps:
- Open your phone's SMS app.
- Type your 13-digit CNIC number in the message text. Do not include spaces, dashes, or special characters. E.g.,
3740512345679.
- Send the message to 668.
- Within seconds, you will receive a breakdown of registered SIM cards showing the network operator and active SIM counts.
⚠️ SMS Cost
Standard network charges of PKR 2.00 + tax apply for sending an SMS to 668. Make sure you have mobile balance before sending.
Method 2: Check SIMs Online via PTA Web Portal
If you don't have mobile network coverage or balance, check your SIM count online using the official PTA portal:
- Visit the official SIM Information website: cnic.sims.pk.
- Enter your 13-digit CNIC number.
- Check the reCAPTCHA checkbox to verify you are a human.
- Click the "Submit" button.
- A table will load showing active connections across all telecom operators.
Maximum SIM Limits per CNIC
PTA enforces strict limits on the number of active mobile SIMs a single CNIC holder can register:
| Connection Type |
Maximum Limit Per CNIC |
Remarks |
| Voice Connections |
5 SIMs |
For call and SMS purposes across all operators combined. |
| Data/Internet Connections |
3 SIMs |
Dedicated internet dongles or data-only SIMs. |
| Combined Total Limit |
11 SIMs |
Maximum total active telecom connections allowed. |
How to Block Unauthorized SIM Cards
If you perform a SIM check and find connections you did not purchase, take immediate steps to block them:
- Visit the nearest franchise or customer service center of the respective telecom network (Jazz, Zong, Telenor, or Ufone).
- Bring your original physical CNIC.
- Explain that you want to block or surrender the unauthorized numbers.
- The representative will take your biometric verification to verify ownership and terminate the selected SIMs immediately.
You can also file a complaint online on the official PTA website or call the PTA Helpline at 0800-15000.
Biometric Verification System (BVS)
All SIM cards in Pakistan must be verified via Biometric Verification System (BVS) at the point of sale. If you buy a new SIM, you must scan your thumb/finger to confirm your registration. Do not buy SIMs from unauthorized street vendors who claim they can bypass BVS — these SIMs are often pre-activated under someone else's name and are highly illegal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check SIM owner details by SMS?
No. For privacy and security reasons, the 668 service only returns the *number* of registered SIMs for each network, not the actual phone numbers or names of the users. To find the specific numbers, you must visit the respective mobile company's franchise with your CNIC.
What should I do if a SIM is registered in my name without my knowledge?
Visit the customer service center of the operator (e.g., Jazz, Telenor, Zong) with your original CNIC. Ask them to check the phone numbers registered to your CNIC, and file a formal request to block and deactivate the unauthorized SIM card immediately.
Is there a limit on mobile data devices?
Yes. You can have a maximum of 3 data SIMs/devices registered under your CNIC, in addition to the 5 voice SIMs. This brings the overall telecom connection limit to 11 per individual.
How do I verify SIMs for corporate or business use?
Corporate SIMs are registered under the company's NTN (National Tax Number) and authorized representative's CNIC. They do not count toward your personal 5-voice SIM limit, but they require official business documentation and biometric clearance from the corporate desk.
Can a foreigner check registered SIMs?
Foreign nationals in Pakistan register SIMs using their Passport. They cannot use the 668 SMS service because it is designed for 13-digit Pakistani CNICs. Foreigners must visit a mobile network franchise with their original passport and valid visa to check or register SIMs.
How long does it take to block a card?
Once you complete the biometric verification at the customer service center, the network operator deactivates the unauthorized SIM within 24 hours. Keep the deactivation receipt as proof.
Can I transfer a SIM card to someone else's name?
Yes. Both the current owner and the new owner must visit the network franchise together. Both must carry their original CNICs and perform biometric verification at the counter to transfer the ownership instantly. A processing fee may apply.
What is the PTA DIRBS system?
PTA's DIRBS (Device Identification Registration & Blocking System) is used to track mobile handsets, not the SIM cards themselves. It ensures that only tax-compliant, legal mobile devices are used on Pakistani networks. You can check your device status by sending its IMEI to 8484.