103: Cybercrime in Pakistan

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Date: 4-January-2025

Source: Pakistan Bureau of Statistics

Globally, AI-powered phishing attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with 90% of successful cyberattacks originating from these deceptive emails. This alarming trend highlights the evolving nature of cyber threats. In Pakistan, the digital landscape has witnessed a significant increase in cybercrimes, with over 304,765 cases reported between 2018 and 2021. Lahore emerged as the epicenter, reflecting the rapid digitalization of urban centers. Since July 2024, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has received over 1,400 complaints regarding compromised WhatsApp accounts. Of these, 549 accounts have been successfully restored, while 877 cases remain under investigation. Financial fraud remains a primary concern, mirroring global trends.

To combat this, Pakistan established the National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency (NCCIA). The NCCIA replaces the Cybercrime Wing of the FIA and is tasked with countering propaganda and rumors on social media, as well as safeguarding digital rights. However, a multi-pronged approach is crucial. This includes raising public awareness about cybersecurity threats, enhancing digital literacy among citizens, and investing in advanced threat detection systems to proactively counter these evolving challenges.

Furthermore, addressing the unique vulnerabilities of rapidly digitizing regions like Gilgit-Baltistan is essential. A comprehensive and proactive approach is necessary to ensure Pakistan can effectively address the evolving cybercrime landscape and safeguard its digital future.