The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has dismantled a large-scale online scam network that was defrauding citizens by posing as a legitimate employment and training provider. Operating under the name “Natural Life Skill Training Institute,” the network lured individuals with the promise of well-paying online jobs and professional training programs. Acting on intelligence reports, NCCIA officials conducted a raid at a private school located on Bosan Road, Multan, where they detained eight individuals suspected of orchestrating the fraudulent operation. The suspects were identified as Abdul Ghaffar, believed to be the ringleader, along with Nisar Ahmed, Muawiya, Huzaifa Tanveer, Hammad Hasan, Asad Saleem, Khalid, and Zain Abbas.
According to an NCCIA spokesperson, the suspects had been collecting large sums of money from job seekers by convincing them to pay registration and training fees under the false pretext of employment placement. Victims were promised remote job opportunities, skill development courses, and certifications that never materialized. During the raid, investigators seized several digital devices including mobile phones, laptops, and storage drives containing evidence of the fraudulent operations. Financial records revealed transactions involving millions of rupees, confirming the extent of the deception. Preliminary findings also indicated that the group used encrypted communication platforms such as WhatsApp and Telegram to coordinate their activities, communicate with victims, and share fraudulent material designed to appear legitimate.
Further investigation revealed that the suspects not only extracted money but also engaged in blackmailing some victims who shared personal data during the fake registration process. Screenshots and chat logs recovered from the seized devices demonstrated the systematic nature of the fraud, where victims were manipulated through fabricated job postings, testimonials, and official-looking documents. NCCIA officials stated that the fraudsters operated in a structured manner, assigning specific roles for recruitment, communication, and payment collection. Their operations reportedly extended beyond Multan, with digital evidence suggesting contacts and victims in other cities as well. The agency noted that such scams have become increasingly sophisticated, exploiting the growing reliance on online platforms for employment and training opportunities.
A formal case has been registered under FIR No. 252/2025, invoking relevant sections of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016 and the Pakistan Penal Code. Authorities confirmed that detailed forensic analysis of the seized devices is underway to identify additional collaborators and trace the financial flow of the fraudulent transactions. NCCIA has urged citizens to verify the legitimacy of any online job or training offer before making payments or sharing personal information. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to combating digital fraud and protecting citizens from cyber-enabled crimes. The recent operation highlights the ongoing efforts of Pakistan’s cybercrime authorities to strengthen enforcement under PECA and enhance public awareness about emerging online threats targeting job seekers and digital users across the country.
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