The federal government has formally issued the operational rules for the National Cybercrime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), defining its mandate and granting it extensive powers to address the country’s growing digital threats. According to a notification issued by the Interior Ministry, the NCCIA will investigate cybercrime cases under both the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), significantly strengthening the state’s capacity to deal with digital offenses ranging from financial fraud to child exploitation.
Under these new rules, NCCIA has been authorized to conduct inquiries and initiate investigations with the approval of its director general, who will also be responsible for approving the freezing or restoration of any property linked to cybercrime cases. This provision ensures a centralized command structure for oversight and accountability in the agency’s operations. To further enhance discipline and professional conduct, NCCIA officials will be required to wear uniforms, reinforcing the seriousness and institutional strength of the agency as it establishes its presence.
In response to the evolving nature of online threats, the NCCIA will also establish specialized units to focus on specific areas of cybercrime. These include a dedicated wing to combat online financial fraud, another to address online harassment and exploitation of children, and a self-accountability unit tasked with ensuring internal monitoring and transparency. Officials believe that these dedicated structures will allow the agency to handle sensitive cases with greater expertise while maintaining integrity in its operations.
The rules also emphasize cooperation with both national and international bodies. NCCIA will be empowered to collaborate with provincial law enforcement, sensitive institutions, and global organizations to strengthen cybercrime investigation capacity. This reflects Pakistan’s recognition of the interconnected nature of cyber threats and the importance of building strong partnerships to counter them. With its new framework, NCCIA is positioned as a critical body in ensuring the protection of citizens from digital crimes, fostering safer online spaces, and aligning Pakistan’s cyber governance with international best practices.
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