KARACHI: Muhammad Tariq Nawaz, Additional Director of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Karachi Zone, revealed that 40% of all cybercrimes in Pakistan consist of financial fraud. To tackle this growing threat, a proposal has been sent to the government to establish a National Cyber Fraud Management Center to ensure the timely sharing of information regarding fraud victims with relevant authorities.
He made these remarks during his visit to the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI). According to a press release issued by the KATI spokesperson, the Additional Director announced that a joint framework and platform will be developed in collaboration with KATI to allow industrialists to directly lodge their complaints.
Key Highlights of the Briefing:
Organized Gangs: Cybercrimes are backed by organized groups possessing highly sensitive data, which they use to deceive the public. Prevention First: To eliminate cybercrime, it is essential to first dismantle the networks and leakages that grant criminals access to citizens’ confidential information. Public Awareness: Government agencies are actively providing guidelines across various channels to help citizens safeguard their data from online scammers.
“As times change, criminals are inventing new methods of fraud. It is crucial for citizens to stay informed, remain vigilant, and avoid falling into the traps of these fraudsters,” Nawaz emphasized.
Cyber Security is No Longer Just an IT Issue: President KATI
Earlier, KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput highlighted that the world is rapidly transitioning toward a digital economy. Pakistan’s industry, trade, banking, exports, e-commerce, and supply chain now heavily rely on digital systems.
While this digital shift has unlocked new business opportunities, it has also amplified significant risks including cyber fraud, data theft, ransomware attacks, phishing, fake websites, financial deception, and identity theft.
“Today, cybersecurity is no longer just an IT-related matter. It has become a critical issue for business continuity, investment protection, export reputation, and the overall stability of the national economy,” Rajput stated.
The event was also attended by KATI Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya, Senior Vice President Zahid Hameed, Vice President Muhammad Talha Ali, Standing Committee Chairman Danish Khan, former presidents Farhan-ur-Rehman and Masood Naqi, alongside Deputy Director NCCIA Arsalan Manzoor and other members.
