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PTA has started blocking WhatsApp accounts linked to inactive SIM cards, urging users to update their registered numbers to prevent unauthorised access and misuse.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has started blocking WhatsApp accounts registered with inactive SIM cards to prevent potential security threats and protect users from unauthorised access. The move aims to ensure that mobile numbers linked to WhatsApp accounts remain under the control of their original owners.
According to PTA officials, the blocking process is already underway following an awareness campaign urging mobile users to review their WhatsApp registration details. The authority had previously advised subscribers to update their registered mobile numbers if their SIM cards had been deactivated, cancelled, or permanently discontinued.
The initiative addresses growing concerns surrounding the recycling of inactive mobile numbers. When a SIM card remains unused or is permanently deactivated, telecom operators may eventually reassign its number to another subscriber. However, if the previous owner continues using WhatsApp with that number, the new subscriber could potentially gain access to account-related verification processes.
This situation may create opportunities for unauthorised access, account misuse, and privacy breaches. It could also put personal conversations and other account information at risk if the original user no longer has control over the registered mobile number.
To avoid such complications, PTA has advised users to confirm that their SIM cards are active and that their WhatsApp accounts are registered with numbers they currently own. Subscribers who have switched networks or changed their mobile numbers should also ensure their account details are updated accordingly.
WhatsApp provides a built-in number-change feature that allows users to transfer their existing account registration to a new mobile number without creating an entirely new account. The feature helps users retain their account information while replacing the old number with one they actively use.
PTA’s latest action highlights the importance of maintaining accurate mobile registration details as digital communication becomes increasingly dependent on mobile numbers. Users are encouraged to take timely action rather than wait for their inactive numbers to be reassigned, reducing the chances of account-related security issues and protecting their personal information.
