ISLAMABAD, Sept 5: Realising that the rampant use of Sims (subscriber identity modules) is a threat to national security, the government has decided to make issuance of new mobile phone connections subject to biometric verification of the applicants.

The decision was taken at a meeting presided over by Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan on Thursday. It reviewed matters pertaining to national security.

Chaudhry Nisar expressed concern on the procedure for acquiring new mobile Sims and said the use of unverified and unregistered Sims was a threat to security.

“No compromise will be made on this issue with cellular companies because the matter is related to national security.”

He ordered preparation of a fast-track system to help the authorities concerned track the activities of criminals and terrorists and take pre-emptive measures.