PTA Starts Blocking WhatsApp Accounts Linked to Inactive SIMs

In practice, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has began blocking WhatsApp accounts linked to inactive SIM cards.

Key points

• The authority had advised users to update their WhatsApp registration if their previously registered SIM cards had been deactivated, cancelled or were no longer in employ.
• Users who have changed their mobile numbers should employ WhatsApp's number-change feature to transfer their account registration to their current number.
• Inactive mobile numbers can pose security risks since telecom operators may eventually reissue them to other subscribers.
• If a WhatsApp account remains linked to such a number, the original owner could lose control of the account or expose it to unauthorised access.
• PTA has pressed mobile phone users to check their SIM status and ensure that their WhatsApp accounts are registered with numbers they at present employ and control.

PTA thinks this will support prevent the misuse of mobile numbers that are no longer controlled by their original users. Social Media Ignores Pakistan Requests to Remove Online Content.

According to PTA authorities, the blocking process has begun after an awareness campaign urging users to keep their WhatsApp accounts linked to active mobile numbers in their possession.

Meanwhile, the authority had advised users to update their WhatsApp registration if their previously registered SIM cards had been deactivated, cancelled or were no longer in employ.

This can support them maintain control of their accounts and reduce the risk of misuse.

In practice, the authority's action follows its earlier warnings regarding the security risks associated with WhatsApp accounts registered on inactive or cancelled SIM cards. Stay Connected with ProPakistani.

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Taken together, the developments around PTA Starts Blocking WhatsApp Accounts Linked to Inactive SIMs point to a situation that is still moving, and the coming days should bring more clarity.