PTA has unblocked unapproved phones to entice customers.

KARACHI: Many people with cell phones approved by the Non-Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) were happy to see local cellular networks on their handsets again. He advised others on social media to activate their Subscribers Identification Module (SIMs) in their blocked phones.

Phones approved by non-PTA cannot be used with SIM card in the country after 60 days of their arrival in Pakistan and without submission of required duty / tax. Such phones can be connected to and used over a Wi-Fi network.

While some see it as a technical glitch, rumors are circulating that the Shahbaz Sharif-led government has abolished heavy taxes on expensive mobile phones and the Pakistan Telecommunications Authority (PTA) has banned these devices. Has been instructed to unblock.

However, their happiness will not last long, as the PTA explained that blocking an indefinite number of PTA-approved cell phones was a regular exercise aimed at getting people to use the services. Encourage tax collection to continue.

PTA spokesman Khurram Ali Mehran said it was a persuasive exercise by the authority to encourage people to register their phones and pay taxes.

“Random phones are allowed to work and they will be blocked automatically at any time within 60 days,” he said.