PTA Urges Mobile Users to Activate Spam Call Blocking Service Across Pakistan

Islamabad: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has issued instructions to activate the “Blind Save Service” or “PayG Blocker” service to protect mobile users across the country from spam, fraud and unnecessary calls, under which users will be able to restrict unwanted internet and suspicious services on their mobiles.

The awareness campaign launched by the PTA has informed that all the major mobile companies of the country have introduced specific USSD codes for the protection of users, through which this service can be activated immediately.

According to the authorities, Jazz users can activate the service by dialling *275#, Zong users *4004#, and Ufone users *6611#, while Telenor Pakistan users can activate the service by dialling *342#.

According to the PTA, the aim of this initiative is to protect mobile users from fake links, unnecessary promotional messages, suspicious internet services and possible cyber fraud. The organisation says that many users unknowingly use such services that not only affect their mobile balance but also create the fear of misuse of personal information.

According to the spokesperson, the “PayG Blocker” service can prove to be especially beneficial for those users who use prepaid mobile connections and want to avoid unnecessary internet activities. Officials say that with the help of this service, mobile internet remains inactive until the user reactivates it.

PTA has advised users not to share their personal information on any unverified link, suspicious call or social media message. According to the organisation, there has been an increase in incidents of mobile fraud and cybercrime in recent years, in view of which public awareness has become very important.

Telecom experts say that cybersecurity risks are also increasing due to the increasing use of smartphones and digital payments in Pakistan. According to them, a large number of users are not fully aware of technical information, which is taken advantage of by fraudulent elements.

According to experts, this facility introduced by PTA will provide additional protection to users and will be helpful in limiting unnecessary digital activities. They say that such measures not only increase the trust of users but also play an important role in promoting a safe digital environment in Pakistan.

The PTA has appealed to the public to inform their families, especially the elderly, about these services so that they can be protected from online fraud.