Over 60% of cybercrime complaints in Pakistan are linked to online fraud and loan app scams, with financial losses surpassing Rs. 3 billion annually, warns NCCIA during a Senate briefing.
The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunications, led by Senator Palwasha Khan, convened a session during which officials from the National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency (NCCIA) highlighted the growing threat of online fraud, loan app scams and gaps in telecom regulation.
NCCIA officials reported that over 60% of complaints received involve electronic crimes, with financial fraud in Pakistan estimated at more than Rs. 3 billion annually. They noted that the actual figure is likely much higher, as many incidents remain unreported.
READ MORE: IT Ministry Confirms Increase in Cyberattacks, Data Leaks Across Pakistan
During the briefing, officials explained that citizens are frequently targeted through fake courier calls, mobile verification codes, and phishing schemes. Hackers can gain control of WhatsApp accounts for up to 12 hours, using them to impersonate victims and extort money from their families and friends.
In the past year alone, authorities raided 63 illegal call centres, arrested 450 suspects, and uncovered Rs. 720 million linked to fraudulent activities.
