Before you start: keep evidence
Take a screenshot of your result from cnic.sims.pk or the 668 reply, with the date showing. If you haven't run the check yet, see how to check the SIMs on your CNIC.
From here on, write down every complaint number you are given. Those numbers are what link your case together if it moves from the operator to PTA.
Steps to remove a SIM that isn't yours
- Note which operator the unknown SIM is with. The result lists SIMs by operator.
- Call that operator's helpline. Say that a SIM is registered on your CNIC without your permission, ask for it to be blocked, and ask for a complaint number.
- Go to the operator's franchise or customer service centre with your original CNIC. A photocopy is not enough.
- Ask for the SIM to be disowned. Staff verify your thumbprint before they process it.
- Ask for a receipt or reference number before you leave.
- Run the CNIC check again after a few days to confirm the count has dropped.
| Operator | Helpline from its own SIM |
|---|---|
| Jazz | 111 |
| Zong | 310 |
| Ufone | 333 |
| Telenor | 345 |
What it costs
Disowning charges were introduced on 1 January 2024.
| Situation | Charge |
|---|---|
| The SIM was issued in your name illegally, without your consent | One-time waiver, no charge |
| You are disowning a SIM you have held for less than six months | Up to Rs 200 |
Say clearly at the counter that you never bought the SIM, so that the waiver is applied.
The one-year rule
In May 2026 PTA extended the SIM disowning period from 60 days to 365 days. A newly activated SIM can now be disowned only after one year from its activation.
If you are told that an unknown SIM can't be disowned yet, ask for it to be blocked and file a PTA complaint the same day. The complaint is your dated proof that you reported the SIM as soon as you found it.
The same rule is a reason to be careful with your thumbprint. A SIM you verify for someone else stays on your CNIC for a year.
Block, disown or transfer?
These are three different requests. Asking for the right one saves a second visit.
| Action | What it does | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Block | Stops the SIM working, for example after a phone is lost | Helpline or franchise |
| Disown | Removes the SIM from your CNIC | Franchise, with your CNIC and thumbprint |
| Transfer | Moves the SIM to another person's CNIC | Franchise, with both people present |
Transferring a SIM to another person
If a family member or a buyer is going to keep using your number, transfer it properly. Until then the number is legally yours.
- Both people go to the operator's franchise together, each with an original CNIC.
- Ask for a change of ownership for the number.
- Both people have their thumbprints verified.
- A few days later, both run the CNIC check to confirm the SIM has moved.
Operators can ask for more, such as clearing a postpaid bill first, so call the helpline before you go.
Lost or stolen phone
Call your operator's helpline from another phone and have the SIM blocked straight away. Then visit a franchise with your original CNIC to get a replacement SIM with the same number.
The handset is a separate matter. Report the theft to the police, and ask PTA about blocking the phone by its IMEI through 0800-55055.
SIMs of a relative who has died
SIMs stay registered on a CNIC after the holder dies, until the family has them closed. Go to each operator's franchise with the death certificate and your own CNIC, and ask what they need to block or transfer the numbers.
Filing a complaint with PTA
Go to PTA when the operator has not solved the problem. Have these ready:
- Your CNIC number
- The operator's name and the complaint number it gave you
- The screenshot of your CNIC check
- What you want done: the SIM blocked, disowned or investigated
You can file by phone on 0800-55055, online at complaint.pta.gov.pk, or through PTA's WhatsApp assistant on 0315-0055055.
Common questions
How do I block a SIM that is registered on my CNIC?
Call the operator's helpline for a complaint number, then visit its franchise with your original CNIC and ask for the SIM to be blocked and disowned. Your thumbprint is verified at the counter.
Is there a fee to disown a SIM?
Operators can charge up to Rs 200 for a SIM held for less than six months. There is a one-time waiver if the SIM was issued in your name illegally and without your consent.
Can I remove a SIM from my CNIC online?
No. A helpline call can block a SIM, but removing it from your CNIC needs a franchise visit with your original CNIC and thumbprint.
Why can't a new SIM be disowned?
Since May 2026 a newly activated SIM can be disowned only after one year from activation. You can still have it blocked and file a PTA complaint.
What if the operator doesn't help?
File a complaint with PTA on 0800-55055 or at complaint.pta.gov.pk, and quote the operator's complaint number.