In Pakistan’s mobile market, the term “CPID approved” has become increasingly common, especially among buyers seeking high-end smartphones without paying the heavy Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) taxes. Despite its popularity, this method is unofficial, illegal, and strongly condemned by authorities.
This article explains what CPID approval is, why people are attracted to it, and the serious risks attached to these devices.
What Does “CPID Approved” Mean?
CPID stands for Certificate Personal ID.
In Pakistan, the term is used for smartphones whose original IMEI number has been illegally altered or replaced.
This illegal modification is done to bypass the PTA’s Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS).
The original, non-taxed IMEI of a premium phone is replaced with an IMEI already registered with PTA—usually from a cheap feature phone.
This makes the expensive smartphone appear “PTA registered” even though it is not.
CPID vs. Normal Patching
Although both methods are illegal, sellers market CPID as a more “advanced” alternative to basic patching.
Normal Patching
- Software-based method
- Often requires rooting
- Breaks after updates or factory resets
- Causes issues with banking apps
- Sometimes trips Samsung Knox
CPID Method
- Done through engineering mode
- Uses professional tools/servers
- Claimed to be a one-time permanent process
- Most apps, including banking, work normally
- Does not usually trip Knox
However, both remain unlawful under Pakistani regulations.
Is CPID Approved Legal?
Absolutely not.
Using, selling, or promoting CPID approved phones is illegal in Pakistan.
The PTA, together with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), has intensified its crackdown on individuals involved in IMEI tampering.
Under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016), IMEI alteration is a punishable offense.
Penalties Include:
- Fine up to PKR 1 million
- Imprisonment up to three years
- Confiscation of the device
- Criminal investigation
PTA states that IMEI manipulation poses:
- National security risks
- Public safety concerns
- Major economic losses due to unpaid taxes
Risks of Buying a CPID Approved Phone
While the price may seem attractive, the risks are far greater.
1. Sudden Device Blocking
PTA regularly audits DIRBS.
If two devices with the same IMEI appear in different locations, both can be blocked permanently.
2. No Warranty or After-Sales Support
Manufacturers and official service centers do not accept altered devices.
3. Shared IMEI Problems
Your phone shares an IMEI with the original legal device—
meaning network issues, flags, or tracebacks can affect you.
4. Legal Consequences
Even users—not just sellers—can face FIA investigations for knowingly using tampered devices.
5. Consumer Misleading
The term “CPID approved” is used to trick buyers into thinking the device is officially compliant when it is not.
How to Verify a Truly PTA-Approved Phone
A genuine PTA-approved phone means:
Its original IMEI is registered
All applicable taxes have been paid
The device shows as PTA compliant in DIRBS
Verification Methods
1. SMS
Send the 15-digit IMEI (dial *#06#) to 8484.
2. Online Check
Use the official PTA DIRBS portal.
When checking:
- Ensure the model shown matches the physical device
- Avoid devices showing mismatched brands or model names
Read: More Technical News
