ISLAMABAD – The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA)linkrolledout on Wednesday a new automated system for blocking lost and stolen mobilephones.

From now on, people will file a request with the PTA through the new Lostand Stolen Device System (LSDS) in case their mobile phone is snatched,stolen or misplaced.

Upon receiving the complaint, the IMEI number of the phone will be blockedat first step while the device will be blocked within 24 hours of reportingafter necessary verification.

Users will have to lodge a request with PTA through its online ComplaintManagement System (CMS) at www.pta.gov.pk. link Thecomplainant will receive a complaint reference number upon successfulregistration of the blocking request.

If the phone is recovered, the complainant will have to follow the sameprocedure to get it unblocked. The user will receive an SMS on theregistered number once the mobile phone is unlocked.

“Currently stolen, snatched and lost mobile phones can be blocked orunblocked by calling PTA’s toll free no 0800-25625, email to imei@pta.gov.pk orthrough CPLC, Karachi. After launch of the new system, these mediums willnot be available for blocking or unblocking of phones,” the regulator said.