UK SIM Cards Misused in Pakistan for Cyber Crimes: FIA Report

UK registered SIM cards are being misused in Pakistan for serious crimes, including child pornography and cyber fraud. The FIA is combating the unauthorized sale and use of these SIMs which are easy to obtain via social media. The agency’s recent crackdown includes arresting a man smuggling thousands of these cards from the UK, reinforcing their commitment to curbing cybercrime.

A recent report from Pakistan highlights the alarming use of illegal UK registered SIM cards in serious crimes like child pornography and cyber fraud. Waqaruddin Syed, the Additional Director General of the FIA Cyber Crimes unit, expressed concerns over the widespread sale of these SIMs in the Pakistani market, categorizing cyber crime as a multifaceted issue.

The FIA has initiated operations against this unauthorized market, recognizing UK-based SIM cards as particularly sought after due to their accessibility and pre-activated nature. Syed mentioned that these SIM cards are easily acquired through social media platforms, significantly aiding criminal activities.

Moreover, Syed pointed out that criminals and terrorists utilize these SIMs for communication, stressing that the illegal use of international SIMs poses a threat to Pakistan’s security and governance. The FIA remains committed to enforcing the law regarding such technologies to protect national interests.

In an action last January, the FIA intercepted a suspect at Multan International Airport who was attempting to smuggle approximately 6,700 foreign mobile SIM cards from the UK. This individual, identified as Mohammad Zohaib, was traveling on flight QR-618 from Doha when detained, showcasing the scale of the issue at hand.

The authorities are now pursuing legal action against Zohaib under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, as investigations continue into the origins and potential uses of these illegal SIM cards. This incident exemplifies ongoing efforts by the FIA to combat cybercrime and protect the integrity of the telecommunications system in Pakistan.

The increase of illegal UK SIM cards in Pakistan represents a significant challenge in combating cyber crime, especially concerning child exploitation and fraud. The FIA’s proactive measures highlight the importance of addressing these issues to safeguard national security. The arrest related to SIM smuggling also illustrates the scale of the problem and the need for ongoing vigilance against illicit telecommunications practices.

Original Source: www.geo.tv