ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued important guidance for mobile phone users to prevent unnecessary deductions from their balance.
According to the PTA, users can activate the free Balance Save service, available across all mobile networks without any charges, to protect their prepaid balances.
The authority explained that once a data package expires, mobile internet often continues automatically using the remaining balance, which can lead to unexpected deductions. The Balance Save or PAYG Blocker service is designed to prevent this issue. Once activated, the mobile internet automatically stops when the data bundle is exhausted, safeguarding the user’s balance.
PTA advised users to activate this service using the network-specific USSD codes:
Jazz: *275#
Zong: *4004#
Ufone: *6611#
Telenor: *342#
A PTA spokesperson said the service ensures that users’ balances are not suddenly deducted after a data package ends and strongly urged citizens to activate it to stay protected from unnecessary charges.
PTA warns consumers against buying unapproved mobile phones
Earlier, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a fresh warning against the purchase, sale, use, and import of unapproved and illegal mobile phones, urging consumers to verify devices before making a purchase.
In an official statement, the authority advised citizens to ensure that any mobile phone they intend to buy is PTA-approved and properly verified by the seller.
According to the PTA, consumers should always check the device’s IMEI number before purchasing a phone and compare the IMEI displayed on the handset with the number printed on the box.
The authority stated that users can obtain a phone’s IMEI number by dialing *#06#. In addition, citizens can verify the device by sending the IMEI number via SMS to 8484.
The PTA further noted that the sale and purchase of illegal devices is a criminal offense under the Pakistan Telecommunication Act 2016, carrying penalties of up to three years imprisonment and a fine of Rs1 million.
The authority also advised consumers to verify devices through the official website or the Device Identification, Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) to avoid legal or technical complications.
According to PTA’s 2026 policy updates, unverified mobile devices may be blocked at any time.
The regulator added that the DIRBS system was introduced to curb the circulation of illegal and unregistered mobile phones, under which devices carrying unverified IMEI numbers are being blocked in phases.
