ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has announced plans to block WhatsApp accounts linked to inactive, cancelled or no-longer-in-use SIMs, citing concerns over fraud and other illegal activities.
The telecom regulator said some WhatsApp accounts associated with inactive mobile numbers were being used for fraudulent activities and other unlawful purposes.
The PTA said the blocking process for WhatsApp accounts linked to inactive SIMs could begin at any time, urging users to ensure that their WhatsApp accounts remain connected to active mobile numbers.
The authority advised users who have changed their mobile numbers to use WhatsApp’s “Change Number” feature in a timely manner. This will allow them to transfer their account to their new active number and maintain control of their WhatsApp account.
The PTA also urged mobile users to verify the current status of their SIMs and take necessary action if a number linked to their WhatsApp account is no longer active.
The regulator said the measure is aimed at preventing fraud, improving digital security and protecting users from the misuse of inactive mobile numbers.
Users are therefore advised to review the mobile number linked to their WhatsApp account and update it if necessary to avoid disruption to their account.
