Mohsin Naqvi Orders Intensified Crackdown on Cybercrime, Online Financial Fraud

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has directed the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) to intensify action against cybercrime, online financial fraud, digital blackmail and harassment.

The Interior Minister issued the directives during his visit to the NCCIA Central Zone Headquarters in Lahore, where he inspected various sections, including the Complaints Cell and Forensic Laboratory, and reviewed the agency’s overall performance.

A special meeting was held under his chairmanship, during which the NCCIA Director General briefed him on ongoing investigations, action against cybercriminals and the agency’s future strategy.

Mohsin Naqvi directed strict and indiscriminate action against organized groups involved in online financial fraud and ordered a vigorous crackdown on fake accounts, digital blackmail and online harassment.

He instructed officials to address complaints regarding online harassment and fraud promptly and on a priority basis. He also directed that complaints involving financial fraud should receive an immediate response so that timely measures could be taken to secure the funds of affected citizens.

The Interior Minister ordered a comprehensive review of pending cybercrime cases and directed that investigations be expedited and brought to their logical conclusion at the earliest.

He said protecting women and children from online harassment, blackmail and other forms of cybercrime was a special priority. He also called for effective measures to protect citizens’ data, privacy and financial information.

Naqvi said the government was providing the NCCIA with state-of-the-art technology and all necessary resources to combat cybercrime effectively. He directed further strengthening of the agency’s digital forensic and investigative capabilities and increased use of modern forensic tools.

He stressed the need for advanced training of officers in line with international standards, saying investigators must be equipped with modern skills to deal effectively with the evolving nature of cybercrime.

The Interior Minister also directed that public awareness campaigns against cybercrime be made more effective to help citizens protect themselves from online fraud and other cyber threats.

Naqvi said the NCCIA would be transformed into a modern, effective and professional cybercrime-fighting force capable of providing citizens with a secure environment in the digital world.

DG FIA, Inspector General Islamabad Police, Director FIA Lahore Zone, Acting Director NCCIA Central Zone and other relevant officials were present at the meeting.