The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has launched the second phase of its nationwide cyber awareness campaign across all its circles, targeting students of schools, colleges and universities to improve their understanding of digital safety and emerging online threats. The initiative focuses on educating young internet users about cyber blackmailing, online harassment, financial fraud and other cybercriminal activities while encouraging responsible use of digital platforms. An NCCIA official told APP on Thursday, November 12, that awareness sessions were being organised at educational institutions across the country, attracting large numbers of male and female students. The campaign aims to provide practical knowledge that can help young people recognise suspicious online activities, protect their personal information and respond appropriately when encountering digital threats. As students increasingly use social media, online gaming platforms and internet-based services for communication, education and entertainment, the agency is emphasising the importance of understanding the risks associated with these activities. Through educational sessions, NCCIA is seeking to strengthen students’ awareness of online safety and encourage them to adopt practices that reduce their exposure to cybercrime. The second phase builds on the agency’s public education efforts by extending awareness activities across its nationwide network of circles and engaging students in different educational settings.
During the awareness sessions, students are being briefed on digital safety, cyber blackmailing, online harassment and child sexual abuse material (CSAM), with particular attention to recognising online exploitation and seeking timely assistance. The programme aims to help students understand how harmful online interactions can develop and why suspicious communications should be taken seriously. Participants are also receiving guidance on securing social media accounts, protecting personal data and avoiding online financial fraud. The agency is highlighting the importance of keeping sensitive information private and exercising caution when responding to unfamiliar messages, requests or online offers. Gaming-related scams are another subject covered during the sessions, reflecting the risks that can arise when users interact with unknown individuals or share information through gaming platforms. Students are being encouraged to remain alert to suspicious activity and avoid actions that could expose their accounts or personal information. The discussions also address the importance of responsible digital behaviour and understanding the potential consequences of sharing private material or engaging with individuals whose identities and intentions are unclear. By covering these topics together, NCCIA aims to give students a broader understanding of online threats and practical measures they can use to protect themselves while accessing digital services.
The campaign also includes information about relevant legal provisions under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2016, as amended in 2025. According to the NCCIA official, students are being briefed on important provisions to help them understand cyber offences and their legal implications. The sessions seek to connect awareness of online risks with knowledge of the legal framework governing cybercrime, enabling participants to better understand the significance of different forms of digital misconduct. Students are also being guided on how to report cybercrime through the NCCIA online complaint portal and helpline. The agency said this information is intended to help young people approach the relevant authorities promptly if they experience online harassment, financial fraud or other digital offences. Familiarity with reporting channels can be particularly important for students who may be uncertain about how to respond when they encounter suspicious activity or become victims of cybercrime. The official said participants had appreciated NCCIA’s efforts to promote cyber awareness among young people and improve their understanding of online safety. The sessions are intended to encourage students to seek appropriate assistance when necessary and to become more informed about the options available for reporting suspected cybercrime. Through these discussions, the agency is working to make digital safety information more accessible within educational institutions.
Director General NCCIA Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi said raising awareness about cyber threats among the younger generation had become an urgent need in the rapidly expanding digital environment. He said the agency was taking all possible measures to promote a safe and secure digital environment and protect citizens, particularly students, from cybercriminal activities. The DG also said cyber awareness sessions would continue across all NCCIA circles as part of the agency’s ongoing public education campaign. The nationwide initiative highlights the importance of introducing practical cybersecurity knowledge to students and encouraging safer use of digital platforms. By addressing online harassment, cyber blackmailing, financial fraud, gaming-related scams and personal data protection, the campaign aims to help young internet users recognise potential risks and make informed decisions. The inclusion of legal awareness and reporting guidance also provides students with information about how to seek support when facing cybercrime. NCCIA’s engagement with schools, colleges and universities reflects its effort to reach young people through educational activities and strengthen public understanding of digital threats. As the campaign continues across the agency’s circles, its stated focus remains on improving online safety awareness, promoting responsible internet use and helping students understand how to protect themselves from cybercriminal activities.
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