PTA BLOCK ALERT: All Non-Registered Mobile Devices to Be Blocked (Check Status Now)

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a new warning that all non-registered mobile devices in Pakistan will soon be blocked if they are not verified through the Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS). This guide explains how to check your phone’s PTA status, register your IMEI, and avoid SIM and network disconnection.
By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to stay compliant and keep your phone active.

What Is DIRBS and Why PTA Blocks Non-Registered Devices

DIRBS (Device Identification Registration and Blocking System) is PTA’s digital system that ensures only verified mobile devices work in Pakistan. It detects fake, smuggled, or cloned phones and blocks those not properly registered.

PTA introduced this system to:

Stop illegal mobile imports
Collect tax on imported devices
Protect users from fraud and counterfeit phones

If your phone is not registered through DIRBS, it will be blocked automatically from making calls, using mobile data, or sending SMS.

Two Ways to Check PTA Status of Your Mobile

1. Via SMS (Offline Method)

Open your SMS app.
Type your 15-digit IMEI number.
Send it to 8484.
You’ll receive a message with your phone’s status:
- Compliant (Registered)
- Non-Compliant (Needs registration)
- Blocked (Disabled by PTA)

Tip: Dual-SIM phones have two IMEIs — check both separately.

2. Via DIRBS Portal (Online Method)

Visit the official website: dirbs.pta.gov.pk
Enter your IMEI number in the verification box.
Click on Submit.
The system will show your device’s current status.

This online method is free and gives instant results.

PTA IMEI Status Messages and Meaning

PTA Status	Meaning	Action Needed
Compliant / Valid	Registered with PTA	No action needed
Non-Compliant	Not registered	Register device via DIRBS
Blocked	Blacklisted or cloned	File appeal or replace device
IMEI Not Found	Invalid or fake IMEI	Check with seller immediately

How to Register a Non-Compliant Device

If your device shows Non-Compliant, follow these steps to register it:

Visit dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs
Enter your IMEI number and CNIC / Passport details
Generate a PSID (Payment Slip ID)
Pay the required tax/duty through a bank or mobile app
Wait 24-48 hours for verification and approval

For Overseas Pakistanis: PTA allows temporary registration for up to 120 days while using roaming SIMs.

PTA Rules and Exemptions

Device Type / Situation	Rule / Exemption	Note
Devices used before Dec 2018	Already approved	No action needed
Phones on foreign SIM	Temporarily allowed	Must register if local SIM used
Imported phones	Must be registered	Otherwise blocked
Dual-IMEI phones	Both IMEIs must match	Register both for compliance

What Happens If You Don’t Register Your Device

Delaying PTA registration can cause several problems:

SIM card services (calls, SMS, internet) stop working
Device becomes permanently blocked
Extra taxes or fines may apply later
Device resale value drops sharply

Once blocked, reactivation can be difficult or impossible without PTA approval.

Buyer Safety Tips

Before buying any mobile phone in Pakistan:

Always verify IMEI via SMS (8484) or DIRBS website
Match IMEI numbers on box and device
Demand a PTA-approved invoice or registration slip
Avoid buying phones showing Non-Compliant or IMEI Not Found

If Your Device Gets Blocked

If your phone is blocked:

Check the reason through DIRBS
Submit an appeal at PTA Complaint Portal
Provide original purchase proof and payment slip
If your IMEI is cloned or fake, you may need a new device

How to Verify PTA Status of Your Phone Using IMEI in 2025

To check if your mobile phone is PTA-approved in 2025, simply send your 15-digit IMEI number to 8484 via SMS. Within seconds, you’ll receive one of these responses: Compliant, Non-Compliant, or Blocked.
You can also verify it online through the official DIRBS portal by entering your IMEI number. This quick check helps you confirm whether your device is legally registered with PTA or needs verification.

What “Non-Compliant” Means & How to Fix It

If your phone status shows “Non-Compliant”, it means your device has not been registered in PTA’s DIRBS database. The phone may still work temporarily, but it’s at risk of being blocked soon.
To fix it, visit dirbs.pta.gov.pk/drs, generate a PSID, and pay the required tax or duty online or through a bank. After payment, your device will be registered and marked “Compliant” within 24–48 hours.

Conclusion

PTA is strictly enforcing its device registration policy to stop smuggling and protect genuine users. You can easily avoid phone blocking by verifying your IMEI through SMS (8484) or the DIRBS portal and registering your device before the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How can I check if my phone is PTA registered?
Send your IMEI to 8484 or check on dirbs.pta.gov.pk.

Q2: What happens if my phone is non-compliant?
You’ll need to register it on the PTA portal and pay the applicable tax.

Q3: Can I use my foreign phone temporarily in Pakistan?
Yes, you can use it for up to 120 days on roaming SIM without registration.

Q4: Why is PTA blocking phones now?
To eliminate illegal phone imports and ensure tax compliance.

Q5: Can a blocked phone be unblocked?
In some cases, yes — if you provide proof of purchase and register properly through PTA.

PTA BLOCK ALERT: All Non-Registered Mobile Devices to Be Blocked (Check Status Now)

What Is DIRBS and Why PTA Blocks Non-Registered Devices