The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has rescued a 13-year-old girl in Karachi after an investigation into a suspected online network allegedly targeting children through hidden digital identities. The agency initiated the investigation after receiving information from a foreign intelligence agency regarding suspicious online activities connected to a group allegedly involved in child exploitation. Authorities stated that the girl was identified as a victim of the network and was provided assistance before she could complete a further harmful task assigned to her.
According to NCCIA Additional Director Tariq Nawaz, the agency received a tip-off along with an email address linked to the suspected activity and relevant internet protocol (IP) addresses. Investigators analysed the available digital information and traced the activity to Karachi. During the investigation, officials determined that the individual connected to the online activity was not operating the network but was instead being targeted by individuals using concealed online identities. The investigation team found that the girl had been contacted through social media platforms and messaging applications by accounts allegedly connected with a dark web group. NCCIA officials said the suspected online network had assigned the girl a series of tasks involving animal cruelty and self-harm. According to the investigation details shared by the agency, the girl had completed an initial task involving the poisoning of a cat. She was later instructed to carry out an act that could have caused serious harm to herself, but NCCIA officials reached her before she could proceed with the next task. Following the identification of the situation, the agency team visited the girl’s residence, secured her electronic devices for digital examination, and informed her parents about the circumstances. Officials said the family was previously unaware of the girl’s online interactions and activities.
The girl’s parents informed investigators that they had observed changes in her behaviour over the previous six months but had not connected those changes with her internet usage. NCCIA is continuing its investigation to identify the accounts and individuals involved in contacting the girl and to trace the operators behind the suspected network. Authorities are also examining whether other children in Pakistan may have been approached through similar methods. No arrests have been announced in connection with the investigation so far.
The case highlights concerns around online risks faced by children as social media platforms and messaging applications become increasingly common channels for communication. NCCIA has advised parents and guardians to remain aware of children’s online activities, monitor unusual behavioural changes, and maintain open communication about potential digital threats. The agency has also continued to raise awareness about cyber offences involving misuse of online identities, personal information, and social platforms.
Earlier, NCCIA issued a warning regarding the creation of fake social media profiles of women, unauthorised sharing of personal information and images, and online blackmailing. The agency stated that such activities fall under cybercrime-related offences and can result in legal action. Through ongoing investigations and public awareness efforts, NCCIA aims to address digital threats and improve protection for citizens, especially vulnerable users, across online platforms.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
