NCCIA told to intensify action against online financial fraud

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has ordered the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency to step up its campaign against criminal groups behind internet-based money fraud, bogus profiles, online extortion and harassment. Mettis Link News, citing Radio Pakistan, reported that the instruction was given during a meeting on Sunday at the agency's Central Zone Headquarters in Lahore. Naqvi asked for action against organised gangs rather than isolated incidents, and for a broad crackdown on cybercrime.

Naqvi called for an instant response mechanism for complaints about money fraud, with stronger coordination among concerned institutions so victims can recover their money without delay. Investigators are also to get better means of tracing suspects and following fund movements linked to fraudulent transfers. He further asked the agency to build up its digital forensics, adopt modern forensic tools and provide specialised training to investigation officers facing increasingly complex cybercrime.

The report notes that the government has put growing emphasis on digital offences. Wider use of internet banking, electronic payments and social platforms has opened fresh routes for scams.