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By Tanveer Ahmed :
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has taken strong action to block illegal mobile devices across the country. In its latest report for the financial year 2024–25, the authority revealed that nearly 100 million mobile phones were blocked. This effort targets fake, cloned, and stolen devices, ensuring a safer mobile environment. Using the Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS), the PTA has strengthened consumer protection and market transparency.
The PTA provided detailed statistics on the blocked mobile devices, highlighting the types and numbers affected. Fake or replica phones accounted for the largest share, followed by duplicated or cloned IMEIs. Stolen or lost devices were also included, though in smaller numbers. This crackdown demonstrates the authority’s commitment to cleaning the mobile ecosystem and supporting lawful device use, protecting both consumers and network operators from illegal products.
| Device Category | Number of Devices Blocked |
|---|---|
| Fake or Replica Devices | 72,000,000 |
| Duplicated or Cloned IMEIs | 27,000,000 |
| Lost or Stolen Handsets | 868,000 |
The PTA credits the success of this crackdown to the Mobile Device Management (MDM) ecosystem. Introduced under the MDM Regulations, 2021, this framework has helped local mobile assembly grow quickly. By 2025, over 95% of mobile phones on Pakistani networks are produced locally. Of these, 68% are smartphones. This shift supports industrial self-reliance, reduces import dependence, and strengthens the local technology sector for long-term growth.
Currently, 36 companies hold local manufacturing authorisations, including major global brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo. These companies contribute to a robust mobile industry in Pakistan. The PTA’s enforcement of DIRBS ensures that only authorised devices operate in the network. This regulation not only prevents illegal devices but also motivates investors to expand local production. It reflects a strategic move toward a sustainable and legally compliant mobile market.
The crackdown has also boosted government revenues significantly. Since 2019, the government has collected over Rs. 83 billion from individual-category mobile device registrations. The PTA emphasises that a formalised local manufacturing base strengthens economic resilience. With consistent enforcement and local production, Pakistan is becoming a key player in the regional mobile phone market. DIRBS continues to provide a secure and transparent ecosystem for consumers and businesses alike.
The PTA’s actions signal a major transformation in Pakistan’s mobile sector. By combining strict enforcement with support for local manufacturing, the country is moving toward self-sufficiency. Consumers benefit from genuine, secure devices, while the government secures revenue and industrial growth. Looking ahead, the mobile ecosystem in Pakistan is expected to expand further, providing opportunities for innovation, investment, and sustainable economic development in the digital era.
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