Check How Many SIMs are Registered on Your CNIC

In today’s mobile-first world in Pakistan, ensuring the SIM cards registered under your identity are all legitimate is more important than ever. If you’ve ever asked yourself “How many SIMs are registered on my CNIC?”, you’re not alone. Uncontrolled registration of SIMs under a single CNIC can lead to misuse, legal liabilities, and headaches you don’t need.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: the rules set by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), how to check your SIMs, why you should verify your CNIC, how to use IMSIData, what to do if you find unknown SIMs, and how you can stay safe. I’ll keep it simple, clear, and easy to follow.

Why You Should Check How Many SIMs Are Registered Under Your CNIC

Let’s start with the why. Why does it matter how many SIMs are registered under your CNIC (Computerised National Identity Card)?

1. Protect your name and identity

Every SIM card in Pakistan is linked to a CNIC. If someone else’s SIM is under your CNIC without your knowledge, any calls, messages or illegal activity using that SIM could be traced to you. That’s a serious risk.

2. Prevent SIM-fraud, abuse and misuse

There have been many cases in Pakistan where SIM cards were registered under someone’s CNIC without their knowledge. As one user on Reddit put it:

“I went to get a new sim today and got to know that there were already 5 sims registered on my cnic. … One of them was the one I’m using rn and other four were unknown…” 
By regularly checking your list, you reduce the chance of such misuse.

3. Stay within legal / regulatory limits

The PTA has set limits on how many SIMs a person can have under one CNIC. If you’ve already hit that limit, you could be denied a new SIM registration until you take action.

4. Manage old / unused SIMs

Over time you might accumulate a bunch of SIMs—some active, some inactive. Verifying what’s linked to your CNIC lets you clean up unused or forgotten ones.

5. Peace of mind

Knowing what’s under your CNIC means you’re aware and in control. No surprises.

What Are the Rules: How Many SIMs Can Be Registered on One CNIC?

The major question: How many SIM cards can one CNIC have registered?

According to the PTA and multiple credible sources:

• An individual CNIC may have up to five (5) active SIM cards registered across all networks.

• If you attempt to register a new SIM while you already have five active SIMs, you may face rejection or will have to first deactivate/block an existing one.
  
  

It’s important to note: Some sources list the number as five voice SIMs only, but for safety you should assume five total unless the specific operator allows otherwise.

How to Check How Many SIMs Are Registered on Your CNIC

Here’s the practical part. How do you actually check how many SIMs are registered under your CNIC?

Official Methods (through PTA)

1. SMS method: Send your 13-digit CNIC (without dashes) to short code 668. You will receive reply detailing the number of SIMs registered under your CNIC. 

2. Online portal: Visit the official PTA SIM Information System (for example via “cnic.sims.pk”) and input your CNIC. You’ll see the number (and in some cases details) of SIMs linked to your ID. 

These methods are free (or minimal cost for SMS) and directly from the regulator.

Using IMSIData

A convenient alternative platform is IMSIData. Here’s how you use it:

• Visit IMSIData.

• Enter your CNIC (or mobile number) into the search field.

• Within seconds you’ll get results listing your registered SIMs, networks, registration dates and status. 

• The platform claims to use PTA-approved data sources and supports all major Pakistani networks. 
  
  

Step-by-step example (via IMSIData)

1. Go to IMSIData.

2. Input your CNIC number (without dashes).

3. Click the “Search” or equivalent button.

4. Review the list of SIMs registered under your CNIC: networks (e.g., Jazz, Ufone, Zong, Telenor) and status (active/inactive).

5. If you see any numbers you don’t recognise or think you no longer use, note them down.

6. If everything is fine, great. If something’s off, you’ll need to act (see section below).
   
   

What to Do If You Find Unknown or Excess SIMs Under Your CNIC

If your check shows unknown SIMs or you’ve exceeded the limit, here are your next steps:

1. Verify your own list

Check each listed number: Do you recognise it? Did you ever register it? Is it active? Sometimes you may have old unused numbers sitting there.

2. Visit the respective network’s franchise or customer-care

For each unfamiliar number:

• Go to the network’s service centre (e.g., Jazz, Ufone, Zong, Telenor) with your original CNIC.

• Request them to verify the number registered under your CNIC and ask to block/deactivate if it isn’t yours.
  
  

3. File a complaint with PTA if needed

If you’re unable to resolve via the network, you can lodge a complaint with PTA. They monitor unauthorized registrations and misuse. 

4. Clean up unused numbers

If you find numbers that you once owned but no longer use, it’s wise to block them. That frees up your registration slots and lowers risk.

5. Regular monitoring

It’s a good idea to check your CNIC’s SIM list every 3-6 months, especially if you’ve ever lost your CNIC, given it to someone, or suspect misuse. 

6. Why this matters: Real-life risk

As one Reddit user shared:

“It’s Pakistan. Everything is possible. This is not as uncommon as one would think.” 
Misuse of someone’s CNIC for SIM registration can lead to serious problems, so acting early is key.

Understanding SIM Registration & Ownership in Pakistan

To appreciate the full picture, let’s cover how SIM registration works, why CNIC linkage exists, and the role of biometric verification.

How SIM registration works

• When you buy a new SIM in Pakistan you must present your CNIC.

• Your CNIC is verified (including biometric thumb impression via National Database & Registration Authority (NADRA) systems) before activation.

• The network records your SIM with your CNIC, linking (in the backend) your identity with that SIM number.

• After registration, that SIM is counted against your CNIC’s total registrations.
  
  

Why CNIC linkage exists

• To prevent anonymous SIM usage (which can be used for crime, fraud, harassment).

• To hold individuals accountable for telecom usage.

• To make telecom regulation and security stronger.
  
  

The role of biometric verification

Whenever you buy a SIM, your thumb print is typically verified via NADRA’s biometric system. If it doesn’t match you, the SIM can’t be activated. This measure helps prevent fraudulent registrations using someone else’s CNIC.

Why You Should Use IMSIData (and What to Look Out For)

While official channels exist, many people prefer using IMSIData for its convenience. Here’s why and what to keep in mind.

Advantages of IMSIData

• It provides instant results: Within seconds you can see all SIMs registered under your CNIC.

• It supports both SIM number lookup and CNIC lookup.

• It claims to use PTA-approved data sources (though always remain cautious).

• User-friendly interface, doesn’t require waiting.
  
  

Things to verify / watch out for

• Although IMSIData claims reliability, always cross-check via official PTA channels if you find something unusual.

• Never share your CNIC or personal security information on suspicious websites.

• Be aware of unofficial websites that claim “SIM info” but may misuse data or be illegal. Some articles warn against such sites.

• Make sure you understand the difference between checking how many SIMs vs. getting full personal info of every number (which may be restricted).
  
  

Step-by-Step: Check & Clean SIMs on Your CNIC Today

Here’s a clear checklist you can follow right now:

1. Gather your original CNIC (13-digit number) and a smartphone or computer.
   
   

2. Decide how you’ll check:

   • Either send your CNIC to 668 via SMS.

   • Or visit the official PTA portal (e.g., cnic.sims.pk) or a reliable service like IMSIData.
     
     

3. Enter your CNIC (without dashes) and submit.
   
   

4. Review the list of SIMs shown: network names, number of SIMs, status/active/inactive if available.
   
   

5. Make a note of each number: Do you recognise it? Do you still use it?
   
   

6. For any numbered SIMs you don’t recognise:

   • Go to the operator’s service centre.

   • Present your CNIC and request them to block/deactivate those SIMs.
     
     

7. For any SIM you recognise but no longer use: consider blocking/deactivating to free up your registration slot.
   
   

8. If you discover more than five SIMs registered under your CNIC: take immediate action to block extra ones because you may exceed the regulatory limit.
   
   

9. After you’ve cleaned up, set a personal reminder to check your SIM status every 3-6 months.
   
   

10. Keep records of any blocking requests, reference numbers, complaint IDs just in case you need proof later.
    
    

Additional Tips & Best Practices

• Always buy a new SIM from an authorised retailer/franchise. Make sure your CNIC is used at time of registration and that your thumb impression is taken.
  
  

• Keep your CNIC safe; never give your CNIC number or copies to third parties unless necessary and trusted.
  
  

• When you change your mobile network or port your number, check the old SIM is properly deactivated.
  
  

• If you lose your CNIC or it goes missing, check immediately for any new SIM registrations under it.
  
  

• If you receive SMS or calls threatening you about SIM misuse or CNIC hacking, be cautious: many are scams.
  
  

• Maintain a list of your mobile numbers (old and present) and their registration details; it helps you verify.
  
  

• Understand that some websites may claim to show full SIM owner details including names/addresses—these may be illegal or have outdated/stolen data. Use only trusted platforms.
  
  

Why It Matters for Everyone – Not Just You

While the above is about your personal CNIC and SIMs, this affects more than just you:

• Family members: If your CNIC is used by someone else’s number without your knowledge it could affect your legal standing.

• Business use: If you run a business and have multiple SIMs under your name, keeping track prevents regulatory issues and helps budgeting.

• National security and telecom integrity: The PTA’s limits and tracking help prevent misuse of telecom services for crime or fraud which affects the whole country.
  
  

Common Pitfalls and Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming there are no unknown SIMs because you haven’t bought new ones: Some registrations may have been done long ago or without your immediate notice.

• Ignoring minor/old SIMs: Even an inactive SIM registered under your CNIC counts and may create a slot problem or risk.

• Relying solely on unofficial/unverified websites: Many sites claim to provide SIM details but may be inaccurate or illegal.

• Delaying action when you find suspicious SIMs: The sooner you act, the lower the risk of someone using a SIM against your name.

• Not retaining proof of your blocking/deactivation requests: If issues arise later, you’ll want documentation.
  
  

Summary

In short: Checking how many SIMs are registered on your CNIC is both simple and smart. By using either the PTA’s official methods or a reliable platform like IMSIData, you can see all SIMs linked to your ID, clean up any unwanted ones, and ensure you’re within regulatory limits. Do it now, and make it a routine every few months.

Knowing your SIM landscape under your CNIC gives you control. It protects your identity, guards against misuse, ensures regulatory compliance, and brings peace of mind.