A Karachi resident changes mobile networks because the internet connection at home has become unreliable. The old SIM goes into a drawer. Months pass, and the number is forgotten.
One day, the resident checks how many SIMs are registered against the family’s identity cards. The result shows more connections than expected. It might be an old SIM that was never formally closed. It might be a mistake in the operator’s records. An unauthorised registration is another possibility.
This hypothetical example illustrates why checking SIM registrations matters. In Pakistan, mobile connections are registered against Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs). The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) provides a system for checking the number of SIMs associated with a CNIC.
How to check SIMs registered against your CNIC online
Open the official PTA SIM Information System. Enter your 13-digit CNIC number without dashes, complete the verification challenge, and submit the request. Compare the operator-wise counts with the SIMs you recognise.
What does the PTA system actually show?
The service provides an operator-wise count. It does not provide a public list of every phone number registered against a CNIC. If you see three connections under one operator, the result alone will not identify those three numbers. You must approach that operator to investigate.
The SIM Information System also notes that its results do not reflect CNIC validity. A successful lookup is not confirmation of the status of your identity document with NADRA.
How to check your SIM registrations by SMS to 668
If you cannot use the website, open your phone’s messaging app, type your 13-digit CNIC without dashes, and send it to 668. Review the reply showing the registered SIM counts. SMS charges may apply, so check your operator’s tariff.
What should you do if an unknown SIM appears?
Suppose you own one Jazz SIM and one Zong SIM, but the system shows two Jazz connections and one Zong connection. This hypothetical discrepancy needs investigation, not an immediate accusation of fraud.
Think first about old connections you may have purchased. If the count still seems wrong, take your original CNIC to the relevant operator’s official customer service centre or authorised franchise. Ask staff to verify the registrations and explain how to identify or close an unwanted connection.
The operator may require biometric or other identity checks. If the connection is not yours, request disowning or closure under its procedure. Keep the service request number until the issue is resolved.
Can someone register a SIM using your CNIC without permission?
Pakistan requires subscriber identity verification, including biometric checks under applicable procedures. PTA has also warned about misuse of biometric information. Purchase SIMs through authorised outlets and avoid giving identity documents or fingerprints to unknown sellers.
An unfamiliar registration alone does not prove fraud. For a wider look at the risks of linked identity databases, read Pakistan Is Building a Digital Identity State. What Should It Be Allowed to Know?
How to file a complaint with PTA
If the operator does not resolve the issue, use the official PTA Complaint Management System. Explain the discrepancy, identify the operator and provide your earlier service reference. Use official channels for sensitive details; never post your complete CNIC in public comments.
Beware of fake SIM ownership websites
Some unofficial websites promise to reveal a person’s telephone numbers, address or other private records from a CNIC. They are not the official SIM count service. Avoid entering identity details into an unknown site, and never disclose a one-time password to someone claiming to verify your SIM registration.
Why SIM registration matters for mobile banking
Banks and mobile wallets may use your registered telephone number for communications or account verification. An extra SIM on your CNIC does not automatically give anyone access to your bank account, but losing control of the number linked to financial services can create security risks.
If you lose a SIM linked to your banking services, contact your operator and alert your bank when account security may be affected. Our guide to card payments without an OTP explains why payment authentication needs separate safeguards. You can also consult what Pakistani bank customers should know about their rights if you need to challenge a disputed transaction.
How often should you check?
There is no need to check every day. Consider checking after losing a SIM, changing networks or noticing unexpected activity. If you have bought several connections over the years, an occasional review can help reconcile your records. When you stop using a connection permanently, ask the operator about formally closing it.
Check your CNIC before a problem develops
Use cnic.sims.pk or SMS to 668, then compare the totals with your records. If something does not match, ask the operator to investigate and keep your complaint reference.
Official resources: PTA SIM Information System · PTA Complaint Management System · PTA National Telecom CERT.