Knowing how to check how many SIMs are registered on your CNIC is essential to ensure your identity is not being misused. In the past few years, many cases have been reported where unknown SIM cards were found registered under innocent people’s CNICs. These SIMs are sometimes used for illegal activities, fraud, or harassment, putting the original CNIC holder at serious risk.
The problem is that if someone else misuses a SIM registered on your CNIC, you could get into legal trouble. That’s why it’s important to check how many SIM cards are registered under your name and remove any that don’t belong to you.
PTA (Pakistan Telecommunication Authority) has introduced easy methods for everyone to check their SIMs through SMS and an online portal. You don’t need to visit any office or wait in long lines. Everything can be done from your mobile phone.
This guide will explain each method step by step. You’ll also learn how many SIMs you’re allowed to have, what to do if you find unknown SIMs, and how to block them.
Why You Should Regularly Check SIMs Registered on Your CNIC
Checking how many SIMs are active on your CNIC is not just a good habit it’s your responsibility. In Pakistan, all SIM cards are linked with the user’s CNIC for national security reasons.
If a criminal or fraudster uses a SIM that’s registered on your CNIC, law enforcement agencies may contact you first. You’ll need to prove that the SIM isn’t yours. This can lead to stress, police inquiries, or even court cases.
Sometimes, shopkeepers or mobile franchise staff issue SIMs without permission using photocopies or leaked data of your CNIC. This is illegal, but sadly it happens. Many people don’t even know that multiple SIMs are registered in their name until they face a problem. By checking regularly, you can avoid these issues.
Moreover, mobile banking, ride-hailing apps, and account verifications are linked to your phone number. If someone else uses a SIM registered on your CNIC and does something wrong, the blame will fall on you. So always check, especially if you’ve changed phone numbers or lost a SIM card.
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How to Check SIMs on CNIC by SMS (Method 1)
If you don’t have internet access or prefer a quicker method, you can check using the SMS service provided by PTA. Just follow these simple steps:
- Open the messaging app on your phone.
- Type your full 13-digit CNIC number (without spaces or dashes).
- Send it to 668.
- You will receive an SMS within a few seconds showing how many SIMs are active on your CNIC and from which networks (Jazz, Zong, Ufone, Telenor).
This method is reliable, fast, and works on any phone, even without a smartphone or internet. It’s also very useful for older adults who are not familiar with online systems. Please note that normal SMS charges will apply, depending on your mobile network provider.
This SMS reply will not show the exact numbers or SIM names, but it will tell you how many SIMs are active under each mobile operator. If the number seems higher than expected, it’s a warning sign — you should take action to remove the unknown ones.
How to Check SIMs on CNIC Online Using PTA Website (Method 2)
If you have a smartphone or access to a computer with internet, this method gives more detailed information. You can visit the official PTA SIM Information System to check how many SIMs are active on your CNIC.
- Open your browser and go to https://cnic.sims.pk.
- Enter your 13-digit CNIC number.
- Complete the captcha (a simple image check to prove you are human).
- Click the “Submit” button.
This system is completely free to use. It’s especially helpful if you want to keep a regular check on your SIMs, or if you’re helping a family member who’s not tech-savvy. Always make sure to use a secure and private internet connection when entering your CNIC.
How Many SIMs Can Be Registered on One CNIC?
PTA has set a clear rule: a person can have maximum 5 SIMs per mobile company. This means you can have:
- 5 SIMs from Jazz, Zong, Telenor, & Ufone
So in total, one person can have up to 5 SIMs, but no more than 5 from one network. This rule is made to avoid misuse and to keep user identity secure. If you try to register a 6th SIM from the same network, the system will automatically block it or ask you to cancel an old one first.
If you’re someone who needs more SIMs for business or other reasons, you can request special permission through the operator or PTA. But for normal users, this limit is enough. Always manage your SIMs wisely and don’t give your CNIC to others to register new ones for them.
What to Do If You Find SIMs That You Did Not Register
If you check and see more SIMs than expected on your CNIC, then take it seriously. It means someone has used your identity to get a SIM. Don’t ignore it, because if something goes wrong, you will be held responsible. Here’s what you should do:
- Note down the SIM that is unknown to you.
- Visit the nearest customer service center or franchise of that mobile network.
- Bring your original CNIC and ask them to block the unknown number.
- They will ask for biometric verification to confirm your identity.
- Once verified, they will cancel the unwanted SIM.
If the mobile company refuses or delays action, you can file a complaint on the PTA’s complaint portal. They will take strict notice and ensure the SIM is blocked.
How to File Complaint on PTA Website
If you’re not satisfied with the response from a telecom company, go directly to PTA. Their complaint system is very user-friendly and made to protect your rights.
- Go to https://complaint.pta.gov.pk
- Click on “Register Complaint”.
- Enter your details and the issue you are facing.
- You can upload documents if needed (like CNIC copy or screenshot).
- Submit the form and wait for PTA to respond.
You’ll get a complaint number to track the status. Usually, PTA responds within a few days. This is a good option if your issue is not being solved at the franchise level.
Why Blocking Unused SIMs is Important
Unused SIMs can be misused for fraud, spam calls, or even illegal activities. Even if you got a SIM many years ago and never used it, it might still be active. Someone else could be using it without your knowledge.
Blocking them protects you from future problems. If your CNIC is clean, you’ll also find it easier to do things like:
- Open bank accounts
- Register on the apps
- Use mobile wallets (like Easypaisa, JazzCash)
- Get your complaints resolved quickly
Blocking unused SIMs also frees up your limit. So if you need a new SIM, you won’t face the 5 SIMs per network restriction.
Conclusion
In today’s world, where your CNIC is linked to almost everything — phone numbers, bank accounts, digital wallets — it’s very important to check and control how many SIMs are registered under your name. The PTA has made this process very easy. You can check through SMS or online in just a few minutes. If you find any unknown or suspicious SIM, take action immediately.
This small step can protect you from big troubles. Never share your CNIC for someone else’s SIM, and always do biometric verification yourself. Stay safe, stay alert.
