The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has urged device users to turn on location tracking features to make it easier to recover smartphones, tablets and computers if they are lost.

In its latest device management guidance, the regulator also shared measures for families to protect devices from unauthorized access and safeguard personal information.

PTA recommended using strong passwords or biometric security, including fingerprint and face recognition, to prevent unauthorized access. Users should also install the latest operating system updates and security patches on their devices.

The authority advised users to maintain regular backups of important files, photographs, contacts and documents using secure cloud storage or external devices.

For children’s devices, PTA recommended parental control features that allow parents to monitor screen time, restrict applications and filter inappropriate content.

The regulator specifically advised users to activate services such as Apple’s Find My iPhone and Google Find My Device. These features can help users locate their devices if they are misplaced or lost.

PTA also advised consumers to remove personal information before selling, donating or submitting a device for repair. Users should perform a factory reset to reduce the risk of their data being accessed after the device leaves their possession.