The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has recovered fingerprints and biometric data belonging to approximately 600,000 citizens during a single raid, officials informed the National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior. During the operation in Faisalabad, the agency also recovered 195 active mobile SIMs, 16 smartphones, and 81 ATM cards associated with different banks from an individual taken into custody. Officials told the committee that the recovered biometric information and SIM cards had allegedly been used in financial fraud targeting citizens, raising fresh concerns over the protection of personal data and the misuse of digital identity information across the country.
An NCCIA director briefed the committee that the recovered biometric records and mobile connections were being used to facilitate fraudulent financial activities. During the meeting, PTA Chairman also acknowledged that employees associated with mobile phone companies had been involved in incidents related to the exposure of citizens’ personal data. To explain the seriousness of the issue, he referred to the case of a woman in Rajanpur whose thumb impression was obtained under the pretext of providing ration. According to the briefing, the biometric information was later allegedly linked to a security related investigation without her knowledge. PTA Chairman further informed lawmakers that authorities have blocked 18 million fake SIMs that had been issued using the identities of other individuals. He added that telecom companies have collectively been fined Rs. 4.5 billion over matters related to SIM registration and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Members of the Standing Committee on Interior also expressed concern over the continued misuse of communication services for fraudulent activities. Committee Chairman Khurram Nawaz highlighted the growing number of fraudulent phone calls, including calls from individuals posing as representatives of courier companies to deceive members of the public. He also pointed to an increase in WhatsApp account hacking incidents, indicating that cyber enabled fraud continues to evolve through multiple digital channels. Lawmakers discussed the need for stronger safeguards to protect citizens from identity misuse and online financial scams while improving coordination among relevant institutions responsible for telecommunications, banking, and cybercrime investigations.
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry also informed the committee about the existence of a “Rent a Bank Account” scheme operating in Pakistan. Under this arrangement, individuals allow others to use their bank accounts in exchange for financial compensation. According to the minister, some account holders are aware of the possible legal implications and reportedly make prior arrangements before providing access to their accounts. The developments discussed during the committee meeting have intensified concerns regarding the security of biometric information, SIM registration systems, and banking infrastructure as authorities continue efforts to curb digital identity misuse, financial fraud, and other forms of cyber enabled crime across the country.
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