The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has uncovered 139 online platforms allegedly involved in the illegal sale of sensitive data belonging to Pakistani citizens. These platforms include websites, mobile apps, and social media accounts, with 18 mobile apps, 17 websites, and 2 YouTube channels identified as part of the network. Additionally, 75 Facebook accounts, 10 Instagram accounts, 12 Telegram accounts, and 10 TikTok accounts were also involved.
The investigation also revealed that citizens’ sensitive information was being sold through a WhatsApp group. In response, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has blocked all identified platforms. Authorities plan to proceed with the next phase of the operation, which will include formal case registration and arrests of those responsible.
This discovery has raised serious concerns regarding cybersecurity and data protection in Pakistan, underlining the need for stricter regulatory measures to safeguard citizens’ personal information.
