KARACHI: In Karachi’s well-known mobile markets such as Saddar, Quaidabad, Tariq Road and Safora Goth, it is common to see banners advertising cheap, brand-new smartphones and “box-packed” phones. However, many of these devices are either counterfeit or discontinued models that are repackaged and sold as new.
Karachi Mobile and Electronic Dealers Association President Muhammad Minhaj Gulfam highlighted this growing issue during an interview with Urdu News.
He said there has been a recent rise in complaints from consumers who say they were sold counterfeit or unreliable phones. These devices are typically old, reconditioned, or “patch” phones passed off as new. Buyers often remain unaware of the phone’s actual model or warranty status, and within 10 to 20 days, their phones get blocked by the PTA.
What is a patch phone?
A patch phone is a device that has not been approved by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). It is built using different IMEI numbers to appear like a new phone. These devices look authentic and are sold in branded packaging, but internally, they are far from genuine.
Such smartphones are usually priced lower to lure buyers seeking affordable options. Some patch phones are sold under the names of completely discontinued models such as Vivo S1 or certain Oppo models that the manufacturers no longer produce.
One such victim, a man named Muhammad Zohaib, went to Saddar’s mobile market to get his old phone’s screen repaired. The shopkeeper advised him to buy a new “box-packed” phone instead. Zohaib paid a bit extra and took the deal. However, the very next day, the phone was blocked by PTA. He later found out it was a patch phone from a discontinued model line.
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Following the intervention of the Karachi Mobile and Electronic Dealers Association, the shopkeeper refunded Zohaib’s money. However, many like him fall victim to such fraud and often don’t file complaints.
The business of mobile kits
According to Minhaj Gulfam, the trade in mobile kits is also part of this fraudulent practice. These kits are phones smuggled into Pakistan without paying duties. They come without warranties or verification and operate on fake IMEI numbers.
“These kits are smuggled in from abroad, and locally in Pakistan, new IMEI numbers are installed to make them appear like new phones. It’s a well-organised scam. Some dealers use fake IMEI numbers, warranty cards, and packaging to completely deceive buyers. These phones often malfunction or get blocked within days.”
He added that their association is actively working against such elements and takes prompt action when complaints are received. However, he stressed that the government — especially the PTA and FBR — needs to take serious measures as well.
The Association president further stated, “We’ve repeatedly proposed that every shopkeeper operating in the market should be registered and their systems linked to an online warranty and registration portal to curb fraud.”
Precautionary measures for buyers
Experts advise taking a few important steps before purchasing a phone. Always check for official warranty, which typically lasts one year for most brands. Immediately verify the IMEI number with PTA to ensure the phone is registered — this can also be done by dialling *8484#.
Avoid purchasing models that have been discontinued or are not listed on the company’s official website. Always ask for a receipt and make sure it clearly states that the phone is new, registered, and branded.
