An overview of the four major telecom operators in Pakistan, their specific USSD codes for checking SIM details, and their compliance with PTA policies.
Pakistan's Major Telecom Operators
Pakistan's telecommunication sector is highly competitive and strictly regulated by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). The market is dominated by four major Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs): Jazz, Zong, Telenor, and Ufone. All four are mandated to enforce the Biometric Verification System (BVS) for SIM activation and ownership management.
Checking Your Own Number on Different Networks
Sometimes you may find an old SIM card or purchase a new one and forget the mobile number assigned to it. Instead of calling someone to see the number, you can use official network USSD codes to check the number of the SIM currently inserted in your phone.
Jazz (Mobilink/Warid)
Jazz is the largest mobile network in Pakistan. To check the number of a Jazz SIM, dial the USSD code *99# from your mobile dialer. The number will be displayed on your screen instantly.
Zong (CMPak)
Operated by China Mobile Pakistan, Zong is known for its extensive 4G coverage. To verify your Zong number, dial *8#. Alternatively, you can send a blank SMS or 'V' to 7911 to receive your number details.
Telenor Pakistan
To find out the number of a Telenor SIM, you can send a blank SMS to 7421. The system will reply with an SMS containing your current Telenor mobile number.
Ufone (PTML)
Ufone, a subsidiary of PTCL, offers a simple USSD code for number checking. Dial *780*3# from your Ufone connection, and your mobile number will appear on the screen.
Managing Ownership Across Networks
Regardless of which network you use, the rules of ownership remain identical. You are allowed a maximum of 5 voice SIMs across all these networks combined. If you have 3 Jazz SIMs, 1 Zong, and 1 Telenor, your CNIC limit is reached. You cannot purchase a Ufone SIM without disowning one of the existing 5 connections through the official biometric franchise process.