The National Assembly on Friday discussed the rising incidence of cybercrimes across the country, with lawmakers expressing serious concern over the growing impact of online fraud on the general public.
Members highlighted how cyber scams, including fake traffic challans and fraudulent messages impersonating educational institutions, banks, and mobile phone companies, are increasingly targeting unsuspecting citizens.
Several legislators pointed out that many individuals, after responding to such fake messages, later found themselves entangled in serious legal troubles. In some reported cases, victims were accused of blasphemy or anti-state activities, leading to arrests and imprisonment.
PTI leader Sheryar Afridi informed the House that a large number of young people were currently facing cases or jail terms due to such incidents. He shared accounts from families he met outside Adiala Jail who claimed they were implicated after replying to deceptive online messages.
PPP legislator Shazia Marri specifically drew attention to fake traffic challans sent by hackers, stating that many people paid fines believing them to be genuine. National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq echoed these concerns, revealing that he too had received fraudulent messages claiming he had committed traffic violations.
Responding to the debate, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said the government was undertaking reforms to strengthen the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA).
He informed the House that the agency had received over 150,000 cybercrime complaints in the past year, with more than 81,000 related to financial fraud. He added that 1,095 accused individuals had been arrested so far and that cellular companies had been directed to improve SIM issuance security.
During the session, other matters were also discussed, including environmental improvements in Islamabad, removal of encroachments, and the forthcoming Vision 2027 development plan for the capital. Additionally, ministers addressed issues related to PIA’s privatisation, export targets, and several legislative bills that were formally introduced in the House.
