The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has warned mobile subscribers against “malicious” links circulating on social media platforms, particularly WhatsApp.
In a press statement issued on Friday, the telecom regulator advised users to be vigilant and not fall prey to “fraudulent” and “phishing” links being circulated via text messages, WhatsApp, and other social networking platforms.
The links are being purported to be associated with the regulator’s Device Identification Registration & Blocking Systems (DIRBS), which is used to verify the registration status of a given device with the authority by texting its IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number to 8484.
The said links mislead users into believing that their SIM cards are involved in “suspicious activities”, urging them to check the status of their SIMs through the provided link, the PTA said. The users are also threatened that their device registration will be revoked if they do not visit the provided link.
“These deceptive tactics are designed to trick individuals into clicking on malicious links, comprising their personal information,” the PTA said, urging users to refrain from clicking on links from unknown senders.
The regulator advised users to report such messages and links through its complaint management portal, either via the official number (0800-55055) or on the website.
“PTA urges the public to stay vigilant and prioritize the use of its official platforms/short codes to protect their personal information,” the regulator added.
