Hajra Naz
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) gave a warning on Friday concerning phishing and fake links flowing on WhatsApp, social media, and through instant messages. These deceptive messages erroneously guarantee a relationship with the PTA’s Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS).
According to the PTA, the circulating message appears to be an official communication, asserting that the user’s SIM has been engaged in “suspicious activities.” It advises users to verify the number of SIMs through a provided link. Alternatively, another message threatens suspension of the user’s phone registration unless they visit a given link.
The telecom sector regulator has highlighted that these deceptive messages deceive individuals into clicking on malicious links, thereby compromising their personal information. The PTA warned the public against clicking links from unknown numbers or senders.
The PTA urged the public to report such phone numbers and links for blocking through the PTA’s complaint management system on its toll-free number. Additionally, they cautioned the public to remain vigilant and prioritize using official platforms to safeguard their personal information.
The telecom controller emphasized that people can stop protests about such exercises on the PTA’s site. To check the situation with their gadget, users are encouraged to visit the official site or forward an SMS to 8484 from their cell phones.
