FIA arrests man accused of fake HEC scholarship scam

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has arrested a man accused of posing as a Higher Education Commission (HEC) representative and defrauding students by offering fake overseas scholarship opportunities.

According to the FIA, the suspect allegedly contacted students through social media and messaging platforms, falsely claiming he could secure HEC scholarships and admissions to foreign universities in exchange for money.

Investigators said several students were persuaded to transfer funds after being promised guaranteed scholarships and expedited admissions. The promised opportunities, however, were found to be fraudulent.

The arrest was made during an operation conducted by the FIA's Cyber Crime Wing following complaints from affected students. Authorities also seized electronic devices and other material believed to be linked to the alleged scam.

The FIA said an investigation is under way to determine the full extent of the fraud and identify any accomplices who may have been involved.

The agency urged students and parents to verify scholarship announcements only through official HEC channels and avoid making payments to individuals claiming to offer guaranteed admissions or scholarships. It also encouraged anyone who may have been targeted by similar schemes to report the matter to the FIA.