FIA launches operation against over 200,000 SIMs issued through fake fingerprints

WEB DESK: In a startling revelation, it has come to light that 200,000 SIM cards were illicitly issued through the use of fake fingerprints in Pakistan.

The Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Cybercrime Wing has initiated a nationwide operation to curb the proliferation of these fraudulent SIMs.

This operation specifically targets SIM cards that are in use but not registered under the names of the individuals currently utilising them in Pakistan.

FIA officials have disclosed that a staggering 205,000 SIMs, issued with fake fingerprints, are being employed in various criminal activities such as terrorism, extortion, and other offences within the country.

According to an official FIA report, the cybercrime teams have conducted 270 raids, resulting in the confiscation of over 100,000 fake fingerprint SIMs.

The report further highlights that over the past four years, 500 criminals have been apprehended, and a total of 53,000 fake SIMs were seized in 2021 alone.

Read more: Govt releases 2024 public holidays schedule

In a bid to crack down on this illicit activity, law enforcement agencies have also seized 81,000 seals with silicon thumbs, a key component in obtaining fake SIMs.

Unregistered SIMs have been identified as tools utilised by terrorists.

This widespread operation has not only resulted in the confiscation of 294 biometric devices but has also led to the registration of 102 cases in courts.

Pakistani cybercrime teams have been successful in arresting 201 individuals involved in these illegal activities.

The concerted efforts against fake SIMs aim to safeguard national security and combat the misuse of communication tools by criminal enterprises.