Islamabad:
Concerns over rising incidents of online fraud and misuse of digital platforms were raised during the National Assembly’s question hour, with lawmakers highlighting the risks posed to citizens, including children.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf lawmaker Shehryar Afridi said that links containing anti-state and blasphemous content were being circulated on WhatsApp, warning that online scams and manipulation posed serious threats to public safety. He said the lives of Pakistani children were at stake due to unchecked digital exploitation.
Responding to the concerns, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said organised groups were involved in online blackmail and fraud, describing them as part of a wider criminal network. He said matters became particularly sensitive when religious content was involved, adding that several individuals previously involved in such activities had already been released from jail.
National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq disclosed that scammers had used his voice to demand money from people, adding that one individual contacted him directly after recognising the voice and seeking verification. The speaker said the matter would be referred to the relevant standing committee for further review.
The minister of state said the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) was actively monitoring such cases, noting that while improvements were being made within the agency, addressing the issue would take time. He also revealed that some individuals were creating and selling digital accounts to criminal networks in exchange for money.
Lawmakers stressed the need for stronger oversight and coordinated efforts to curb online fraud and protect citizens from digital crimes.
