The government has announced that all SIM cards connected to expired CNICs will be blocked. This decision was made during a high-level meeting at Nadra headquarters on Friday, led by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
The first step will target SIMs linked to CNICs issued in 2017 or earlier, aiming to prevent identity misuse and improve security. Future phases will deactivate SIMs associated with CNICs issued after 2017 if those IDs are no longer valid. This move will ensure only active, valid CNICs are used for mobile connections in Pakistan.
Govt. to Block SIM Cards
Naqvi stated that the Interior Ministry will instruct all relevant departments to stop storing biometric data in separate systems. Protecting personal information from theft and misuse remains a top priority. He also emphasized that facial recognition technology should be implemented across Pakistan by December 31, 2025. The Ministry of Interior will oversee this process to ensure it is secure and effective.
Naqvi highlighted plans to improve services for overseas Pakistanis. He ordered a survey, in partnership with the Foreign Ministry, to identify countries where Nadra’s services are most needed. The aim is to make identity services more accessible for Pakistanis abroad.
To strengthen local services, the minister approved plans to open new Nadra offices in Multan, Sukkur, and Gwadar. These offices will make it easier for residents in these areas to access Nadra facilities.
During the meeting, Nadra Chairman Lt Gen Muhammad Munir Afsar provided an update on recent progress. He shared that 87 new registration centers and 417 counters have been set up nationwide in the past year. He warned that many departments still keep citizens’ biometric data in local systems. This raises the risk of data theft. He suggested that a central, secure system based on Nadra’s verified database would be safer.
Nadra has introduced facial recognition and iris scanning to help those who face problems with fingerprint verification. These tools add extra security layers. The PAK ID app now includes digital ID options. It has been downloaded over seven million times. The app can now issue digital IDs, renew federal arms licenses online, and verify pensioners through “proof of life.”
Naqvi also laid the foundation for a new 10-storey Nadra Mega Centre in Sector I-8, Islamabad. The building should be ready by June 2026. The event was attended by State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry and other senior officials.
This initiative enhances identity security and aims to better serve citizens across Pakistan.
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