ISLAMABAD (National Times) The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has blocked 69,000 SIM cards during an operation against illegal SIMs issued on canceled and fake identity cards.

The PTA blocked these SIMs after the August 16 deadline expired.

According to the PTA, in order to restore the blocked SIMs, users will need to obtain a new identity card from the National Database Registration Authority (NADRA).

After obtaining the new ID card, the blocked SIM can be unblocked through biometric verification at a mobile operator or franchise.

A cybersecurity audit of telecom operators has also been initiated. According to PTA sources, the final review of the cybersecurity audit, conducted by globally recognized companies, will be carried out by the PTA.

The cybersecurity of telecom operators will be assessed from all technical aspects. The implementation status of the PTA’s cybersecurity framework by telecom companies will also be reviewed.

Under the cybersecurity framework, it will be checked whether firewalls are in place or not. Additionally, the security clearance of telecom operators’ staff will also be examined, and it will also be ensured that users’ data is not leaked by telecom operators.

The Ministry of Information Technology has presented details of VPNs registered with the PTA in parliament. According to the documents, 20,500 VPNs from 1,422 companies are registered in the country. The documents further reveal that 1,286 VPNs, 136 freelance licenses, and Pakistan Software Houses Association (PASHA) companies are registered in the country. Out of these, 19,840 VPNs are registered under 1,286 companies, while 180 VPNs are registered under 136 freelance licenses. The PTA has registered 417 VPNs under PASHA.