PTA Explains How to Block/Unblock Lost/Stolen Phones

Notably, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has explained how users can block lost, stolen or snatched mobile phones and have them unblocked if the devices are afterwards recovered.

Key points

• Those unable to file complaints online can call the PTA helpline at 0800-55055 or visit the nearest PTA office.
• Users can check an IMEI's status by sending the number to 8484, through the DIRBS website or via the Device Verification System app.
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• PTA Tightens Rules for Telecom Equipment Imports and Deployment.

In practice, the procedure is handled through PTA's Lost and Stolen Device System (LSDS), with complaints accepted through the PTA Complaint Management System app for Android and iOS or its online complaint portal. PTA Tightens Rules for Telecom Equipment Imports and Deployment.

Applicants must provide their name, father's name, CNIC number, city, mobile number applied in the missing phone during the previous six months, IMEI number, handset brand, model and color. While email address, postal address and FIR number are optional, the reason, location and date of the incident are additionally required.

In practice, the SIM applied in the missing handset must be registered against the complainant's CNIC. PTA remarked a blocking request cannot be processed if the phone has never been employed with a Pakistani SIM. The required OTP is sent to the SIM applied in the missing handset.

For PTA-approved dual-IMEI phones, blocking one IMEI automatically blocks the second IMEI, even if only one SIM slot was being applied.

If the IMEI and mobile number details do not match, the user must provide matching information and submit the complaint again.

Those unable to file complaints online can call the PTA helpline at 0800-55055 or visit the nearest PTA office. Phones lost months or years ago can additionally be blocked if the owner has the correct IMEI and other required details.

Once blocked, the handset cannot be applied on any mobile network in Pakistan.

PTA clarified that LSDS only blocks the handset and does not recover stolen phones. Owners must contact the police or the Citizens-Police Liaison Committee for recovery. PTA Can Now Conduct Surprise Inspections of Telecom Equipment.

If a blocked phone is recovered, only the person who filed the original blocking request can apply to unblock it. The applicant must submit the request through the complaint system using the original complaint reference number and CNIC.

After verification, PTA remarked the phone's IMEI is anticipated to be unblocked within 24 hours. Stay Connected with ProPakistani.

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Taken together, the developments around PTA Explains How to Block/Unblock Lost/Stolen Phones point to a situation that is still moving, and the coming days should bring more clarity.