CNIC and SIM Registration in Pakistan – Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about CNIC in Pakistan – what it is, how SIM registration works against it, how to check SIMs registered on your own ID card, verify your own SIM registration through official methods, and protect your identity from misuse.
What Is a CNIC?
CNIC stands for Computerised National Identity Card. It is a 13-digit unique identification number issued by NADRA (National Database and Registration Authority) to every Pakistani citizen aged 18 and above. The CNIC serves as the primary identity document for all official purposes in Pakistan, including SIM registration, banking, property transactions, and voting.
The CNIC format is XXXXX-XXXXXXX-X(5 digits, 7 digits, 1 check digit). Each card contains the holder's full name, photograph, fingerprints, and address. The number is linked to every official record, making it essential to protect your CNIC from unauthorized use.
| Segment | Digits | Example | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serial Number | 1-5 | 12345 | Unique serial assigned by NADRA |
| Unique Identifier | 6-12 | 6789012 | Personal identification number |
| Check Digit | 13 | 3 | Validation digit for number integrity |
Check SIMs on CNIC
Find all SIMs on your ID card
Protect Your CNIC
Prevent SIM misuse
Report Fraud
Report unauthorized SIMs
How to Check CNIC Details
Here are official ways to verify your CNIC details and check SIMs registered on your identity document. They include public self-service methods from PTA and systems used by authorized organizations.
*668# SMS Service
Dial *668# from any mobile phone to receive an instant SMS listing all SIMs registered against your CNIC. PTA charges no service fee for this service across all operators.
PTA Web Portal
Visit cnic.sims.pk, enter your 13-digit CNIC, and view all registered SIMs with operator details through the official portal.
NADRA VeriSys
NADRA's VeriSys system allows authorized organizations to verify CNIC validity and retrieve holder information for official purposes.
Operator Franchise
Visit your mobile operator's franchise or a NADRA center with your original CNIC for in-person verification and assistance.
4 Official Ways to Verify CNIC & SIM Information
These official channels — from PTA, NADRA, and mobile operators — let you verify CNIC validity and check SIM registration status. PTA channels charge no service fee.
SMS to 668
Dial *668# or send your 13-digit CNIC to 668 for a full SIM count across all networks. Reply in ~30 seconds. PTA charges no service fee — standard SMS charges may apply.
cnic.sims.pk
Free PTA web portal. Enter your 13-digit CNIC to view all registered SIMs with operator details and activation dates. Works from any country.
NADRA VeriSys
NADRA's official verification system for authorized organizations to validate CNIC validity and holder identity. Also accessible via PTA channels for SIM checks.
RAABTA WhatsApp
PTA's Digital Assistant at 0315-0055055. Menu-driven SIM check, IMEI status, and complaint filing. Works worldwide with no app needed.
CNIC and SIM Registration
Every SIM card in Pakistan must be registered against an approved identity document — Pakistani nationals generally use a CNIC, while eligible foreign nationals may use passport, NICOP, or POC documents — through biometric verification using NADRA's Mobile Biometric Verification System (MBVS). When you purchase a new SIM, the retailer scans your fingerprints using a NADRA BVS device, which checks your identity against the national database in real time before activating the SIM.
This means your identity document is directly linked to every SIM registered in your name. PTA's Subscriber Verification Management System (SVMS) maintains this connection, allowing you to check which SIMs are on your CNIC through official channels like *668#, cnic.sims.pk, or RAABTA WhatsApp.
SIM Limit per CNIC in Pakistan
The Supreme Court of Pakistan has set a maximum limit on how many SIMs can be registered against one CNIC. Know your limits and stay compliant.
| SIM Type | Limit per CNIC | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Voice SIMs | 5 | Across all operators combined |
| Data-only SIMs | 3 | Additional to voice SIM limit |
| Total Maximum | 8 | Supreme Court of Pakistan, Nov 5, 2015 |
| Foreign Nationals | 2 | POC/NICOP holders |
Per-Operator CNIC Check Codes
Each traditional mobile operator provides specific USSD, SMS, or BVS codes to check SIMs registered on your CNIC through their network; ONIC provides equivalent functions through its app. Use these in addition to the PTA *668# service.
| Operator | Prefix | BVS Code | USSD Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jazz | 0300-0309, 0320-0329 | Send CNIC to 6001 | *321# |
| Zong | 0310-0319, 0360-0365 | SMS CNIC to 310 | *6611# |
| Telenor | 0340-0349 | Send CNIC to 7751 | *345# |
| Ufone | 0330-0339 | Send V to 7911 | *333# |
| SCOM | 0355-0357 | Call 321 | Call 321 |
Why Check Your CNIC Regularly?
Regular CNIC checks help protect your identity and prevent financial fraud. Here is why every Pakistani citizen should verify their CNIC SIM registration monthly.
Unauthorized SIM Detection
Fraudsters can register SIMs on your CNIC without your knowledge. Monthly checks via *668# catch unauthorized activations early.
Financial Fraud Prevention
Criminals use unauthorized SIMs linked to your CNIC to access mobile wallets. Regular CNIC checks protect your JazzCash and Easypaisa accounts.
Legal Liability Protection
If a SIM on your CNIC is used for unlawful activity, you may face inquiries from authorities. Regularly checking your CNIC helps you spot unauthorized registrations sooner and report them through official channels.
SIM Limit Compliance
With the 365-day disowning window, unauthorized SIMs stay on your CNIC longer. Monthly detection is your only reliable defense.
SIM Swap Detection
Attackers can port your number to a new SIM. Regular CNIC checks detect unauthorized changes before financial damage occurs.
Identity Theft Protection
Your CNIC is the most valuable identity document. Regular verification ensures no one is misusing your identity for SIM registration.
Common CNIC Scams to Avoid
Fraudsters use various tactics to steal your CNIC details for unauthorized SIM registration. Recognize these common scam patterns to protect your identity.
Fake PTA/NADRA Call
Caller claims your CNIC is flagged and demands payment via JazzCash to unblock SIMs.
Defense: NADRA and PTA never demand payment by phone. Call PTA at 0800-55055 to verify.
Fake Franchise Scam
Fake operator franchises collect CNIC copies and fingerprints to register extra SIMs.
Defense: Only visit authorized operator franchises. Check cnic.sims.pk within 24 hours after any visit.
Free Gift Scam
Scammers offer free gifts in exchange for CNIC details and biometric verification.
Defense: Never give biometrics or share CNIC copies for promotions. Only provide at official NADRA or operator centers.
CNIC Phishing SMS
Fake SMS claiming your CNIC is blocked with a link to 'verify now' that steals your details.
Defense: PTA communicates through official channels only. Never click links in unsolicited SMS messages.
Important: Protect Your CNIC
Never share your CNIC number, photographs, or fingerprints with unverified third-party websites or individuals. Only use official channels for CNIC verification.
Regularly check your SIM count using the *668# service to detect any unauthorized registrations. If you discover fraud, report it immediately to PTA at 0800-55055 and your mobile operator.
Unauthorized access to someone else's SIM information may violate PECA 2016, with penalties including up to 3 years imprisonment and fines up to Rs. 5 million (Section 16). Visit our guide on protecting your CNIC for more information.
Report cyber incidents to PKCERT. File PTA complaints at complaint.pta.gov.pk.
Frequently Asked Questions About CNIC
What is a CNIC number?
CNIC is a 13-digit unique identification number issued by NADRA to every Pakistani citizen aged 18 and above. Format: XXXXX-XXXXXXX-X.
How can I check my CNIC details online?
Use the PTA SIM Information System at cnic.sims.pk, dial *668# from your mobile phone, or use our online guide at check-sims-on-cnic for step-by-step instructions.
What is CNIC verification?
CNIC verification is confirming that a Computerised National Identity Card number is valid and belongs to a real person by checking against NADRA's database.
How can I do online CNIC verification in Pakistan?
Use NADRA's VeriSys system or the PTA SIM Information System at cnic.sims.pk. Enter your 13-digit CNIC to view all registered SIMs online.
How many SIMs can be registered on one CNIC?
Maximum 8 SIMs per CNIC — 5 voice SIMs and 3 data-only SIMs across all operators combined. Foreign nationals limited to 2 SIMs.
How to check SIMs on my CNIC?
Dial *668# from any mobile phone or visit cnic.sims.pk. Both are official PTA services that charge no service fee and show all SIMs registered against your CNIC.
What to do if there are unauthorized SIMs on my CNIC?
Contact your operator to block them, file a PTA complaint at 0800-55055 or complaint.pta.gov.pk, and visit NADRA to secure your identity.
What is the CNIC format?
The CNIC format is XXXXX-XXXXXXX-X (13 digits total). Example: 12345-6789012-3. The first 5 digits are serial, next 7 are unique, last is a check digit.
What is NADRA CNIC verification?
NADRA CNIC verification is the official process of validating a CNIC through NADRA's database, used by government agencies, banks, and authorized organizations.
How to check id card number by mobile number?
You cannot lawfully look up another person's CNIC from a mobile number. For your own records, send MNP to 667 from the SIM in your hand to confirm its registered network, or check your own CNIC's SIMs via 668 or cnic.sims.pk.
How do I check my CNIC details with full information?
Dial *668# or visit cnic.sims.pk for SIM registration details. Visit NADRA center with your original CNIC for full identity verification including photograph.
What if my CNIC verification shows unauthorized SIMs?
Contact your operator to block them, file a formal complaint at NADRA or PTA, and follow our guide at /guides/report-unauthorized-sim for detailed steps.
How to protect my CNIC from SIM misuse?
Never share CNIC details with unverified parties, only give biometrics at official franchises, check *668# monthly, report unauthorized SIMs immediately to PTA.
Is it legal to check CNIC details online?
Yes, checking your own CNIC details through official PTA and NADRA channels is legal. Unauthorized access to someone else's CNIC data violates PECA 2016.
Sources & Methodology
This guide is based on publicly available information from official government sources. CNIC verification methods, SIM registration procedures, and legal frameworks are sourced from:
- Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) – SIM registration policies and *668# service.
- PTA Complaint Portal – official channel for reporting unauthorized SIMs.
- NACTA – PECA 2016 – legal framework for cybercrime and unauthorized SIM access.
- PKCERT – Pakistan's Computer Emergency Response Team for cybersecurity incidents.
Disclaimer: Lynn Batten is an independent cybersecurity researcher and privacy advocate. This guide is for informational purposes only. See our Disclaimer, Terms, and Privacy Policy.