PTA says CM Pak failed to ensure that a biometric verification device linked to its Taxila franchise remained within its authorised geo-fenced sales location.
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has imposed a Rs77.8 million fine on China Mobile Pakistan (CM Pak) after finding that a biometric verification system (BVS) device linked to an authorised franchise was used to sell SIM cards outside its approved geo-fenced location.
The regulatory action followed a PTA inspection on March 30, 2026, when officials found a Data Sales Officer associated with CM Pak’s Taxila franchise conducting SIM sales at I-10 Markaz in Islamabad. The location was outside the franchise’s authorised geographical area, and the required approval for Door-to-Door or kiosk-based sales had not been obtained.
Under PTA rules, BVS devices used for SIM issuance must remain within 100 metres of the approved geo-location of an authorised sales channel. The requirement is intended to prevent biometric devices from being moved to unapproved locations and to strengthen monitoring of SIM registrations.
CM Pak challenged the enforcement proceedings, describing the incident as an isolated operational lapse involving an individual sales officer. The company maintained that the SIMs were issued only after successful biometric verification and that the transactions remained traceable through the prescribed systems.
The operator also said it had taken corrective measures, including disciplinary action against the concerned franchise and termination of the DSO involved. It further reported strengthened compliance instructions and monitoring across its sales network.
The PTA rejected the defence, stating that successful biometric verification does not remove the separate requirement to comply with geo-fencing rules. According to the regulator, the two safeguards serve different purposes: biometric verification confirms subscriber identity, while geo-fencing controls where SIM issuance is permitted.
The authority also held that CM Pak, as the licensed operator, remained responsible for supervising its authorised sales network. Corrective action taken after the violation was considered but could not erase the established breach.
The PTA subsequently imposed a Rs77.8 million penalty under Section 23 of the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) Act, 1996. CM Pak was directed to deposit the amount within 10 days of receiving the enforcement order, with further action possible if the payment deadline is not met.
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