The federal government has set up a multi-agency task force to step up action against illegal call centers and online fraud operations across Pakistan, as authorities intensify efforts to curb digital crimes that have caused financial losses and damaged the country’s global reputation.
The move was disclosed in a written reply submitted to the Senate of Pakistan by Minister for Interior and Narcotics Control, Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, who said the task force has been created to improve coordination among regulators and law enforcement agencies dealing with unlawful digital and telecom activities.
According to the reply, the task force brings together key institutions, including the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP), the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB). The central goal is to develop a mechanism for real-time information sharing, allowing agencies to respond faster and more effectively to illegal operations.
The minister told the Senate that the task force will focus on improving compliance with existing laws and regulatory frameworks governing digital, telecom, and software-related businesses. It will also work to strengthen enforcement against illegal call centers, unregistered software houses, and other online fraud networks operating under the cover of legitimate businesses.
Another key objective of the task force is awareness. Authorities plan to engage with stakeholders, including IT companies, call center operators, and freelancers, to educate them about regulatory requirements and best practices. Officials believe that better awareness can help prevent unintentional violations while making it harder for illegal operators to exploit regulatory gaps.
Providing details of recent enforcement actions, Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi said law enforcement agencies have so far identified 54 illegal call centers and software houses across the country. These operations were found to involve a total of 537 individuals, including 268 Pakistani nationals and 269 foreign nationals.
As a result of ongoing crackdowns, 213 Pakistanis and all 269 foreign nationals involved in these cases have been arrested, the minister said. In addition, 63 First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered, signalling a tougher legal response to online fraud and cybercrime.
The written reply also shared financial details of the operations. Authorities have recovered Rs. 62.27 million from illegal call centers identified in the latest actions. Overall recoveries from January 1, 2025 to date have reached Rs. 1.405 billion, reflecting what the government describes as sustained and coordinated efforts by law enforcement agencies, including the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).
Officials say illegal call centers have been involved in a range of fraudulent activities, including scam calls, fake tech support schemes, and online financial fraud targeting both local and foreign victims. Such activities have raised concerns internationally and highlighted the need for stronger oversight of the rapidly growing digital and IT services sector.
The formation of the task force signals a more coordinated approach by the government to protect consumers, support legitimate businesses, and ensure that Pakistan’s digital economy grows within a clear and enforceable legal framework. Authorities say further actions and policy measures are expected as the task force begins its work in the coming months.
