The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has implemented a new set of operational guidelines aimed at enhancing data security and improving the efficiency of its services. As part of this shift, citizens applying for Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) and related official documents will now be required to present original documents only. The longstanding practice of submitting photocopies for routine procedures—including B-Forms and registration certificates—has officially been discontinued.
According to NADRA, this policy revision is part of a wider initiative to strengthen internal controls, streamline service delivery, and most importantly, mitigate the risks associated with identity fraud. Clear and updated procedural signage has already been installed at NADRA centres across the country to ensure that citizens are well-informed about the changes. Officials believe that removing the reliance on photocopied documents will reduce opportunities for misuse and create a more secure environment for managing sensitive national identity information.
A key element of the revised policy is the clarification that the use of another person’s CNIC as a reference or guarantee no longer carries any legal validity. This measure is intended to discourage the informal exchange of identity documents and reinforce the importance of personal data confidentiality. The move comes at a time when digital and physical identity fraud has seen a noticeable uptick, with more people falling victim to scams involving impersonation and data theft.
In a separate public safety advisory, NADRA raised concerns about the rampant misuse of CNIC photocopies and the increasing number of fraudulent schemes being reported nationwide. The advisory warned citizens to be cautious when asked to share CNIC numbers or biometric data, such as fingerprints, especially in non-official contexts. Criminals have been known to impersonate government or corporate representatives, luring victims with fake prize claims or financial rewards as a way to obtain personal information.
The authority emphasized that surrendering CNICs or biometric data outside of formal procedures can lead to serious consequences. These include financial fraud, unauthorized registrations, and even criminal liabilities resulting from the misuse of stolen identities. In recent years, there has been a spike in incidents where individuals have suffered significant financial and reputational damage after unknowingly providing their information to malicious actors.
This latest policy direction also aims to reduce the overall paperwork burden for both NADRA staff and the public. By shifting to a model that prioritizes original documents and discourages unnecessary duplication, NADRA expects to improve operational efficiency while enhancing the security of citizen data. The decision reflects the growing urgency to adapt public sector operations to modern digital risk environments where even minor lapses in data handling can lead to major security breaches.
With data becoming one of the most valuable and vulnerable assets in today’s world, NADRA’s proactive measures signify a crucial step toward building a more resilient and secure identity management system. The authority continues to urge citizens to remain vigilant, safeguard their personal information, and report any suspicious activity to NADRA or law enforcement agencies immediately. This initiative marks a firm stance against identity-related crimes and demonstrates the agency’s commitment to protecting public trust in an increasingly interconnected digital era.
