Web Desk: Pakistan’s telecommunications regulator has advised WhatsApp users to immediately ensure their accounts are linked to active and officially registered SIM cards, warning that accounts connected to inactive, blocked, deactivated or unregistered numbers could soon become inaccessible.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) said the measure is intended to safeguard users’ digital identities, personal data and access to their messaging accounts.
In a public advisory, the PTA said WhatsApp users should verify that the mobile number associated with their account remains active and properly registered in their name.
The authority warned that if a SIM card linked to a WhatsApp account has been deactivated or is no longer in service, users should promptly migrate their account to an active and verified mobile number.
According to the regulator, maintaining an active registered SIM is essential to preserving access to WhatsApp accounts, contacts, messages and other personal information.
Meanwhile, the PTA encouraged users requiring assistance to visit their nearest mobile operator franchise or customer service center to complete biometric verification and validate their SIM registration.
The regulator said these steps would help ensure uninterrupted access to messaging services and strengthen account security.
Furthermore, the PTA cautioned users not to wait until they are unexpectedly logged out of their WhatsApp accounts before taking action.
The authority emphasised that a mobile phone number serves not only as a communication tool but also as a key component of a user’s digital identity, making timely verification essential to protecting access to online services.
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