In its advisory, the agency said criminals may create fake Wi-Fi networks using names similar to those of well-known businesses or local shops to trick users into connecting. It urged people to verify network names with staff at hotels, cafes and other public venues before connecting their mobile phones, laptops and other devices.

The NCCIA advised users against accessing bank accounts, transferring money or making online purchases through unverified public Wi-Fi, warning that hackers could steal passwords and sensitive financial information. It recommended using mobile data for financial transactions and disconnecting immediately from suspicious networks.

Speaking at a press conference, NCCIA Lahore Zone Additional Director SP Atif Ameer said the agency was using artificial intelligence and collaborating with relevant institutions to trace and prosecute cybercriminals.

The NCCIA said the advisory aimed to raise public awareness and help people protect their personal and financial information from cybercrime risks associated with unsecured public Wi-Fi.

The NCCIA sought an additional eight days for interrogation and forensic analysis of seized digital devices after completing a two-day physical remand. The agency alleged that Hassan shared false, defamatory and anti-state information through his social media accounts.

During the hearing, Judicial Magistrate (East) Gulraiz Memon heard arguments from the NCCIA and Hassan’s defence counsel, Barrister Mian Ali Ashfaq. The agency cited pending forensic analysis and records from other departments, including the National Database and Registration Authority (Nadra). The defence argued that investigators already had the necessary devices and had shown insufficient progress to justify further custody.

The magistrate ruled that the NCCIA had not provided sufficient grounds for extending physical remand, observing that the agency had already been given adequate time for interrogation. He remanded Hassan to judicial custody until October 26 and directed the investigation officer to submit an interim charge sheet.

The court also issued a notice to the NCCIA on Hassan’s post-arrest bail application and scheduled its hearing for October 21.

District and Sessions Judge Arshad Murtaza dismissed a petition challenging the remand order, finding no significant legal defect in the magistrate’s decision. The defence argued that Hassan’s arrest and detention were unjustified and raised concerns over his right to freedom of expression.

Defence counsel Barrister Mian Ali Ashfaq told the court that Hassan had been taken from his residence in Lahore without a proper legal basis. He submitted transcripts of a video containing the remarks under investigation, arguing that Hassan’s comments about the political situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa fell within the bounds of free speech.

The investigating officer maintained that digital evidence had been recovered from Hassan’s devices and required further examination. The NCCIA prosecutor was absent during the hearing.

In his order, Judge Murtaza observed that the law applied equally to all citizens, rejecting the argument that Hassan’s position as a political commentator entitled him to special legal treatment.

Hassan’s wife also appeared before the court and pointed to alleged procedural discrepancies in the arrest, including the investigating officer’s absence.

The suspect was arrested during a raid at City Housing Society in Sialkot following the journalist’s complaint. Officials seized two mobile phones. A technical examination reportedly found active Facebook, Instagram and TikTok accounts, with the alleged video recovered from one device.

Investigators also found that the suspect’s social media accounts were monetised and linked to a private bank account. During interrogation, Shahzaib reportedly admitted uploading the video on September 10, 2026, but said he later deleted it. Cyber experts recovered the evidence through digital analysis.

The NCCIA said it would pursue legal action under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2016, and submit a charge sheet to the court.

Naqvi said the agency was receiving the highest number of cases involving the harassment and cyber-blackmail of women. He said he would discuss staffing shortages with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, noting that the NCCIA had only 61 officers across Punjab. The government also plans to launch an awareness campaign targeting girls and the general public.

The minister warned people against online financial fraud, advising them to verify requests for money, particularly those made by individuals claiming to be ill. He also cautioned against fake social media accounts and schemes promising to double investments.

The commission shared the draft amendments with stakeholders and invited feedback by November 20, citing its constitutional responsibility under Article 218(3) to ensure honest, just and fair elections.

Under the proposed rules, political parties and candidates must disclose AI-generated campaign material, including deepfake images, audio, videos and synthetic voices. The use of AI in robocalls and voter outreach messages would also require disclosure. Content intended to deceive voters, misrepresent individuals or spread false, derogatory or defamatory deepfake statements targeting individuals and state functionaries would be prohibited.

Print, electronic and digital media organisations, along with social media influencers, would be required to label AI-altered election content. Media outlets could use AI tools to prepare, translate, present and analyse election-related material, provided they disclose their use and remain responsible for factual accuracy.

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority and National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) would monitor compliance.

Election observers would be required to identify and report AI-generated deepfakes and disinformation campaigns to the ECP. They would also be prohibited from using AI to fabricate or alter election photographs, videos, reports or field observations.

The draft proposes five amendments each for media organisations and political parties or candidates, and three for election observers. The commission said the measures aim to strengthen transparency and accountability while reducing the risk of AI-assisted manipulation of voters.

Akbar submitted a complaint to the NCCIA, highlighting that an X (formerly known as Twitter) account uploaded a video on October 12, making unfounded allegations against a bureaucrat using AI-generated visuals and voice mimicking his own. A subsequent video appeared on October 13, targeting provincial minister Meena Khan Afridi with similar fabricated content.

Akbar said the videos had harmed his professional credibility and raised concerns about his personal safety. He urged the NCCIA to identify those responsible and take legal action.

In response to the incident, the Peshawar Press Club (PPC) expressed strong condemnation of the creation and dissemination of the videos. M Riaz, the president of PPC, and the general secretary, Alamgir Khan, issued a joint statement demanding a transparent investigation and appropriate legal actions, warning that the misuse of technology could undermine journalists’ credibility and mislead the public.

The suspect, identified as Jawed, is accused of creating fake Facebook and Instagram accounts to upload and circulate digitally manipulated images of a woman, allegedly intending to damage her reputation and violate her privacy. These AI-generated images were reportedly altered and superimposed using artificial intelligence, causing the woman psychological distress.

A first information report (FIR) has been registered against the suspect under Sections 16, 20 and 24 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2016, as amended in 2025. These provisions cover the unauthorised use of identity information, offences against the dignity of a natural person and cyberstalking.

According to the first information report (FIR), the suspect allegedly used digital technologies to seek information on methods of committing murder. An NCCIA official said on October 13 that the case was registered following an inquiry into the alleged threats and possible misuse of digital technology. The allegations remain under investigation.

The agency raised concerns over the potential misuse of AI and digital platforms for threats and unlawful activities.

Separately, NCCIA Director General Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi met female stress counsellors to discuss psychological support for victims of cyber harassment, blackmail and online abuse.

The meeting focused on strengthening victim-centred counselling services, addressing the emotional and psychological impact of cybercrime, and supporting NCCIA staff handling sensitive cases.

Chief Justice Aalia Neelum heard the petition filed by Alaiya Saleem and directed the two law officers to assist in the matter.

The petition highlights the prevalent use of social media among children under 16 in Pakistan and points out the lack of effective controls to restrict their access to these platforms. It argues that such unchecked usage can lead to adverse effects on young users and appeals to the court to instruct relevant Pakistani authorities to establish a comparable ban to shield children from potential detrimental impacts of social media engagement.

Citing international examples, the petitioner referred to measures adopted in countries including Australia, Brazil and Italy to restrict social media access for children.

An NCCIA official said on October 15 that citizens from different parts of the country raised issues involving financial fraud, social media harassment and other cyber-related offences through a video link. Rizvi reviewed the complaints and instructed the concerned officers on their resolution.

Emphasising a zero-tolerance policy towards online harassment of women, the DG directed officers to take swift, non-discriminatory action against those involved and prioritise such cases to ensure speedy justice.

Rizvi assured participants that every complaint would be taken seriously and handled individually according to its nature to provide timely relief. He said the initiative aimed to improve transparency and efficiency and give citizens direct access to the agency’s leadership without requiring them to visit NCCIA offices in person.

According to a police spokesperson, citizens can now report cyber harassment, online fraud and data theft through the helpline. Complaints received through the system are automatically forwarded to the relevant NCCIA zone for further action.

The NCCIA director general said helpline systems across all provinces and major cities have been integrated with the agency’s system to improve coordination between local police and the national agency, ensuring a prompt response to cybercrime complaints.

The initiative aims to make reporting cybercrime more accessible and improve the handling of complaints and legal action against alleged offenders.

Magistrate Gulraiz Memon dismissed the defence’s application seeking Hassan’s discharge. The defence argued that the content was discussed nationwide and did not constitute an offence under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). However, the magistrate observed that widespread discussion did not justify the dissemination of hate speech.

As per the court record, prior approval was obtained from a Lahore court before arresting Hassan.

Investigating Officer Rana Muhammad Faisal, who sought a 10-day remand extension, said investigators were examining digital devices containing more than 1,145 GB of data linked to Hassan’s online activities.

The agency said the analysis was necessary to trace the original sources of the disputed content, which allegedly aimed to incite public unrest and create disaffection among state institutions. The magistrate observed that it was premature to assess the sufficiency or admissibility of the digital evidence at this stage.

The court also rejected the defence’s objections to Hassan’s arrest and transfer from Lahore to Karachi, observing that the NCCIA, as a federal agency, had nationwide jurisdiction and did not require permission from provincial home departments for such actions.

Hassan told the court that he had not been mistreated in custody and had access to his family and legal counsel. The court scheduled the next hearing for October 19 and directed the investigating officer to submit a progress report.

Organised by the university’s Department of Criminology, the seminar titled “National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA): Challenges, Counter-Strategies, and Freedom of Speech” was held at the Chinese Teachers’ Memorial Auditorium, bringing together academics, cybercrime experts and journalists.

KU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Wasim Qazi said cybercrime was not merely a violation of the law but also a moral and social concern. He highlighted fake online profiles, character assassination and internet harassment as offences requiring stronger legislation and enforcement, while stressing the role of families and educational institutions in promoting responsible online behaviour.

Arsalan Manzoor, Deputy Director of NCCIA Karachi Division, discussed challenges in obtaining digital evidence from platforms including Binance, Facebook, Instagram and Meta, citing privacy concerns. He called for clearer definitions of privacy rights and legal responsibilities in cases involving harassment and defamation.

Journalist Mazhar Abbas highlighted the role of reliable information in countering misinformation and disinformation. He criticised the suppression of information and discouragement of critical thinking in educational institutions, urging greater emphasis on inquiry and independent thought.

In her welcome address, KU Department of Criminology Chairperson Professor Dr Naeema Saeed outlined the NCCIA’s challenges and possible counter-strategies, emphasising the need to balance freedom of expression with responsible digital conduct.

Participants stressed the importance of institutional support, effective laws and public awareness of the legal framework governing online activities to protect citizens from cybercrime while safeguarding freedom of speech.

The ban applies to lawyers, police officers, journalists, litigants and visitors, except in a designated area for journalists.

The notification warns that mobile phones and other devices used for unauthorised recording may be confiscated and violators may face legal action. Administrative officers, the public relations officer, research and reference officer, bar associations and security authorities have been directed to ensure strict enforcement.

Under a notification issued by FBR on September 23, the rules apply to income-generating social media content. Creators can deduct up to 30% of their income as business expenses; the remaining amount is subject to tax.

The tax will be calculated based on Rs 195 per 1,000 views or the creator’s actual remuneration, whichever is higher. Creators whose actual earnings fall below the benchmark must provide evidence such as platform revenue reports, bank statements, withholding certificates, contracts or invoices.

For platforms other than YouTube, creators must declare their total remuneration for the relevant period. The tax commissioner may also request access to a creator’s social media dashboard where required under the law. Non-monetised content and views that generate no income will not be subject to the view-based tax.

The warrant-backed raid led to the seizure of 40 laptops and 41 mobile phones for forensic analysis. The suspects allegedly operated under the name Talk Master Private Limited.

According to the NCCIA, the suspects allegedly used the data to create obscene images with artificial intelligence and threatened borrowers with sharing the images among their contacts unless they repaid loans. The agency has registered a case and launched further investigations.

NCCIA Director General Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi said the agency would maintain a zero-tolerance policy against the misuse of digital platforms for blackmail and other cybercrimes.

Dean Faculty of Health Sciences Prof Dr Rehan Sadiq Sheikh, Director Pakistan Study Centre Prof Dr Amjad Abbas Magsi, Director Sports Dr Shabbir Sarwar, Director Students Affairs Prof Dr Shahzeb Khan, Additional Director NCCIA Atif Ameer, Deputy Directors Hassan Naqvi, M Waqas, hostels’ wardens, superintendents and a large number of students were present on this occasion.

Female students raised slogans for safer digital spaces and urged victims of online harassment to report incidents rather than remain silent. They stressed that harassment through digital platforms remains a serious form of abuse.

In a subsequent meeting, PU and NCCIA officials agreed to establish a student society for Safe Cyber Spaces to promote awareness of cyber risks and responsible digital citizenship. They also planned awareness seminars, interactive sessions and other activities across the university, with a focus on protecting women and young people online.

The policy, approved by the Deputy Inspector General of Police Headquarters, bars personnel from speaking at public forums, publishing articles or issuing statements on social media without prior approval. It also prohibits taking photographs or recording videos in police uniform, whether at government premises or private locations, for personal publicity.

Personnel are also prohibited from sharing or disseminating confidential or official documents and content on social media or other media platforms. The policy also restricts personnel from expressing personal, political or religious views through any media channel.

Unit heads will be responsible for monitoring compliance, while the Public Relations Branch of the Central Police Office remains the sole authorised channel for disseminating information about police activities. The policy takes immediate effect and will remain in force until further orders.

According to a statement from the agency’s Public Relations Office, Khan met Islamabad Zone officers and staff after assuming his duties and directed them to ensure complaints were handled promptly and fairly, without unnecessary delays.

He stressed the need to protect citizens from online financial fraud, digital harassment and fake social media profiles, pledging impartial action against those found responsible. He also called for greater use of advanced technology and digital forensic tools to trace suspects and dismantle cybercrime networks.

Khan emphasised professionalism, transparency and respectful treatment of complainants, directing that no complaint be ignored or delayed without valid reason.

The session, held at a local hotel, was part of a five-day programme titled The Digital Democracy Landscape: Social Media, Civic Participation, and Public Engagement, organised by the Women Media Center Pakistan (WMC) in Hyderabad from October 6 to 10, with participants from various media sectors.

Abbasi urged media and mass communication students to use digital platforms responsibly to highlight societal issues and ground realities, helping administrative bodies make decisions and resolve public concerns. He also stressed the media’s role in public liaison and civic engagement and called for stronger professional skills among media practitioners.

The programme includes practical exercises, discussions and interactive sessions to enhance digital communication skills. It targets women journalists, media students and professionals, focusing on contemporary digital media practices and responsible reporting.

On October 6, an NCCIA official stated that the seminar attracted both physical and online participation from communities, universities, educational institutions and the public. Participants were briefed on how suspicious call centres operate and the importance of identifying and reporting such activities.

The session also focused on online harassment and financial fraud; the NCCIA explained common tactics used by fraudsters and measures individuals can take to protect themselves against digital abuse and financial losses.

The agency stressed responsible use of internet platforms, informed decision-making and awareness of the legal consequences of illegal online activities, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious incidents.

Chief Justice Aalia Neelum heard the petition filed by Alaiya Saleem. The court reviewed responses submitted by the Federal Ministry of Law and Justice and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), with Deputy Attorney General Rafaqat Ali Dogar representing the federal government.

The petitioner’s counsel argued that Pakistan lacks a legal framework for verifying the age of social media users under 16 and alleged that the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) failed to effectively enforce its code of conduct against objectionable content.

The petition also seeks amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) to introduce an age-verification mechanism and stronger safeguards against indecent content and the depiction of alcohol in media. It cited restrictions in countries including Australia, Italy and Brazil as examples.

The National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC) also called for effective age verification and stronger legal safeguards for children online in a separate 17-page submission to the Islamabad High Court (IHC). The LHC has adjourned the matter; the AGP and Advocate General of Punjab are expected to provide their legal opinions at the next hearing.

Neither Rizwan nor the NCCIA officials provided comments to the media after the session. The cricketer maintained a neutral stance, noting only the officials’ cordiality and expressing his desire to leave as he was feeling hungry.

The inquiry lasted more than three and a half hours, with four NCCIA officials questioning Rizwan and examining his mobile phone. The device was seized in England on August 30 for forensic analysis, while Rizwan had provided its password and previously allowed officials to examine its contents in his presence.

Rizwan appeared before the agency under a notice issued under Section 160 of the Criminal Procedure Code. Rizwan had earlier sought clarification about the nature of the inquiry and the return of his phone through a formal letter.

Rizvi was briefed on active cases and complaint processing and directed officers to provide timely assistance to citizens and ensure merit-based investigations. He also inspected the front desk and reviewed the registration, guidance and follow-up of complaints.

He directed officials to streamline the complaint process and ensure prompt and fair action on cases. Rizvi also expressed satisfaction with the circle’s performance.

The response was submitted in a petition filed by Waqas Nasir through advocates Muhammad Jalal Haider and Yahya Farid in August, seeking legislation and a regulatory framework to regulate social media to protect minors from cyberbullying, online harassment and inappropriate content.

The PTA said its regulatory role was currently in transition following the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act 2025, which provides for the establishment of the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA). Until the new authority becomes operational, the PTA said it operates on a “best-efforts basis” under the existing PECA 2016 framework.

The authority also cited technical and regulatory challenges, including the global nature of platforms such as Facebook, Google and X, HTTPS encryption that limits URL-level blocking, and the rapidly evolving use of artificial intelligence. It said it had nevertheless blocked a high volume of reported content and conducted awareness campaigns with organisations including UNICEF and Meta.

The PTA requested the IHC to dismiss the petition to the extent that it seeks relief beyond its statutory mandate. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Ministry of Interior and National Commission on the Rights of the Child also submitted responses to the petition.

Hashmi highlighted the potential of digital platforms to help young people develop skills, pursue opportunities and contribute to national development. He encouraged youth to make full use of information technology and engage in productive online activities. He also referred to the Digital Youth Hub, a federal government initiative under the Prime Minister that offers scholarships, interest-free loans and employment opportunities.

The summit, organised by Al-Khidmat, featured debates, short film and robotics competitions, a Youth Talent Showcase, career counselling and a job fair. Speakers also highlighted the role of information technology and entrepreneurship in creating opportunities for young people.

In his recent communication, Rizwan raised concerns over the lack of formal updates and stated he had fully cooperated with the NCCIA, including providing the password to his iPhone. He said officials examined messages and other contents on the unlocked device in his presence on September 10.

Rizwan said he was initially assured the phone would be returned within three hours and that a digital forensic examination would be completed soon. He requested written details about the inquiry, clarification on when he should appear before the agency again and for the return of his phone.

The inquiry also reportedly involves cricketer Imam-ul-Haq and concerns alleged suspicious transactions. Rizwan denied non-cooperation and sought greater clarity regarding the allegations and the investigative process.

During the visit, Secretary Sarwar received a detailed briefing from NCCIA Director General Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi on the agency’s performance, new strategies to combat the growing issue of cybercrime, and progress on the construction of a new modern headquarters.

The Interior Secretary praised the NCCIA’s recent operations against illegal call centres and online fraud networks and assured the agency of the ministry’s full support to enhance its operational capacity and workforce. Sarwar emphasised that cybercrime poses a significant challenge in the current era, highlighting the NCCIA’s role in protecting the public from cyber threats and ensuring that justice is delivered promptly and transparently.

Separately, Rizvi chaired a virtual meeting with SHOs from NCCIA circles to discuss preventive measures, investigation procedures, the timely handling of complaints, and the resolution of pending cases. He directed officers to ensure professional and transparent investigations, use modern technology, and hold regular open courts.

During a visit to the NCCIA Central Zone Headquarters in Lahore, Naqvi inspected the complaints cell, forensic laboratory and investigation wing and reviewed the process from complaint registration to action against suspects. He chaired a high-level meeting where he ordered a crackdown on organised groups involved in online fraud, fake accounts and digital extortion.

Naqvi directed officials to strengthen the immediate response mechanism for financial fraud complaints to facilitate coordination with relevant institutions, help secure victims’ funds and improve suspect tracing. He also called for a review of pending cases, the use of advanced digital forensic tools and specialised training for investigation officers.

He further directed the NCCIA to prioritise complaints involving online harassment, blackmail and the digital exploitation of women and children, while strengthening public awareness about emerging online fraud techniques. The NCCIA director general briefed the minister on the Central Zone’s performance, ongoing investigations and trends in cyber fraud.

The committee, chaired by Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan, discussed the proposal during its meeting. The agenda also included the proposed Telecommunication Competition Rules, with Ministry of IT and Telecommunication officials seeking more time to finalise them as consultations with telecom operators and other stakeholders continue. The officials said the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) would also be involved in reviewing the rules.

An Additional Director of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) briefed the committee on measures taken against accounts containing blasphemous material and said investigations against those involved were underway. The committee directed officials to expedite the investigations.

The committee was briefed by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on an alleged Rs172 billion fraud involving call centres, with the case referred to the NCCIA for investigation. NCCIA officials also called for improvements in the visa issuance system and stronger mechanisms at the State Bank of Pakistan and SECP. The committee decided to form a subcommittee to investigate complaints of alleged overcharging by a major telecom company.

According to an NCCIA spokesperson, the suspects, comprising Pakistani and Chinese nationals, were allegedly involved in Google-related fraud and low-dating scams. Authorities seized 306 mobile phones, 383 computers/CPUs, and 299 monitors and laptops during the raids.

The premises were temporarily designated as sub-jails to facilitate legal proceedings, while a case was registered under relevant cybercrime provisions. The alleged fraudulent activities reportedly had links to networks in India and Brazil, with further investigations underway into these international connections.

The operation follows recent NCCIA actions against cybercrime, including an August raid in Islamabad in which 114 foreign nationals were arrested for allegedly operating a cyber-romance and sextortion ring. In December, an operation in Karachi also led to the arrest of 34 individuals allegedly involved in fake investment schemes.

An NCCIA official told APP on September 23 that Rizvi chaired a virtual meeting with SHOs of all NCCIA circles to review strategies for cybercrime prevention and improving investigations. The meeting focused on improving investigative measures and ensuring swift relief to citizens, with Rizvi stressing timely justice, transparency and adherence to merit in handling public complaints and cybercrime cases.

Rizvi directed officers to conduct investigations with professionalism and due diligence, provide adequate assistance to complainants, and strengthen the NCCIA’s public-friendly image through better service delivery and professional complaint management.

Memon directed the department to use modern technology for daily monitoring and timely verification of misinformation. He also called for stronger coordination with the NCCIA and relevant institutions to take legal action against those creating or circulating false information that harms individuals or institutions.

The directives were issued during a meeting attended by Information Secretary Kashif Gulzar Sheikh and Director General Information Moez Pirzada. Memon also directed officials to develop a coordinated monitoring system and ensure the public receives accurate and timely information.

Directors of various wings of the department Muhammad Yousuf Kabooru, Aziz Hakro, Hizbullah Memon, Tariq Imam, Fida Biladi, Majid Khan, Amzan Zannoon, Muhammad Kamran, Sarwar Samejo, Imtiaz Joyyo and Deputy Secretary Sahib Khan Bhund, also attended the meeting.

Six suspects — Muhammad Aslam, Huzaifa, Abdul Rauf, Jan Muhammad, Asghar and Umar Usman—were arrested in an alleged Rs1 million scam involving posing as bank representatives and operating illegal call centres.

In a separate raid at Al-Qadir Plaza, Gulberg III, three suspects—Ahsan Rizwan, Muhammad Ahmed and Irfan Khalid Hussain—were arrested, with eight laptops and three mobile phones recovered. Another raid in Barkat Market, Garden Town, led to the arrest of two suspects, Adeel Shehzad and Ali Adnan, and the recovery of five laptops, six computers and one mobile phone.

The NCCIA said the suspects allegedly used VoIP calls to pose as bank or service company representatives and target citizens in Pakistan and abroad. The seized devices were sent for forensic examination, with investigations continuing.

On September 20, during a strategic meeting with the NCCIA media team, Rizvi stressed the need to disseminate timely and authentic information about cyber threats and preventive measures. He also called for more effective use of social media to inform the public and highlight the agency’s activities and performance.

The meeting discussed ways to strengthen the NCCIA’s communication strategy.

During the hearing, Bokhari’s counsel, Advocate Ali Zahid Bokhari, said that his client had sought permission from the Lahore High Court to record her cross-examination online, citing security concerns. He also accused the opposing counsel of pressuring the court during the previous hearing by seeking an arrest warrant against Bokhari and said that fell under contempt of court and action should be taken.

Counsel for PTI activist Falak Javed, Advocate Mian Ali Ashfaq, opposed the request, arguing that Bokhari had also failed to appear at the previous cross-examination hearing. He maintained that failure to appear after a court summons could warrant an arrest order and alleged that the contempt application was intended to delay proceedings.

Judicial Magistrate Naeem Wattoo allowed the one-time exemption and directed Bokhari’s counsel to consult her regarding a possible resolution of the contempt issue.

The case will be heard again on September 30.

The suspect, identified as Muhammad Sarwar Arif, a Lahore resident, was arrested following an investigation into his online activities. During the operation, conducted on the directives of NCCIA Punjab Director Hassam bin Iqbal, three mobile phones were seized from his possession and sent for forensic analysis.

The NCCIA stated that the examination would focus on digital material and social media activity relevant to the investigation to determine the extent of the alleged misinformation and whether Arif had links to others involved in similar activities. Further legal action will be taken based on the findings.

Rizwan’s petition states that the NCCIA notice refers to an investigation into online betting and gambling but does not specify any allegations against him. He said that during his appearance before the agency, he sought details of the allegations but was not provided with specific information. He has asked the court to restrain the NCCIA from taking further action until his petition is decided.

Earlier this month, Rizwan and Test opener Imam-ul-Haq were questioned by the NCCIA at its Johar Town office in Lahore for around four hours. They reportedly sought additional time to submit written responses, while they said their mobile phones were in the agency’s possession for forensic examination.The PCB had taken the phones into custody before handing them over to the authorities.

The committee meeting, chaired by MNA Rana Iradat Sharif Khan at the Parliament House, learnt that among the complaints, 80 were related to cyber financial fraud, 29 to cyber harassment, 17 to cyberbullying, six involved visa fraud, five were cases of identity theft, and three were general complaints.

The NCCIA has implemented a multi-dimensional strategy to combat cybercrime, which involves investigation, digital forensics, coordination with relevant institutions, and public awareness campaigns. A dedicated, web-based Complaints Management Unit has also been established to streamline the processing of these complaints.

Complaints can be submitted by email, through an online portal, in person at one of the 15 cybercrime reporting centres nationwide, at the NCCIA headquarters or by post.

Meanwhile, newly appointed NCCIA Director General Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi announced a policy to combat alleged anti-state propaganda, social media abuse and other illegal online activities, including gambling and illegal call centres. A nationwide crackdown and enhanced cyber patrolling are planned to monitor and address such activities.

The Ministry of Interior plans to consult officials from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) and federal and provincial police departments on measures including a minimum age for social media access and restrictions on platforms linked to harmful content. A stakeholder meeting will also review recent cases of child exploitation involving social media before policy decisions are made.

The move follows similar measures and proposals internationally. Australia restricted social media access for users under 16, while the European Commission proposed restrictions for children under 13.

In Pakistan, the Punjab Assembly recently passed a resolution advocating for a ban on social media accounts for children under the age of 16, a move initiated by treasury lawmaker Sarah Ahmad. The resolution calls on the federal government to implement an effective legal framework that includes parental consent and reliable age verification mechanisms.

In Lodhran, the NCCIA arrested Shahryar for allegedly defrauding a citizen of Rs 653,200 by posing as a customs officer and falsely promising a prize and donation. A search of his mobile phone reportedly revealed a fraudulent WhatsApp account, scam-related chats and videos showing methods of concealing one’s identity.

In Faisalabad, Sunil Amin and Usman Ali were arrested for alleged financial fraud involving bank accounts. Authorities seized 17 mobile phones, 81 ATM cards and 195 SIM cards during the operation. The suspects allegedly impersonated individuals and representatives of public and private organisations to defraud people.

The petition raises concerns over children’s exposure to cyberbullying, addictive platform design, sexual content and the depiction of alcohol, arguing that such content could adversely affect their mental and moral development. It states that the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2016, does not currently contain specific restrictions for users under 16.

Citing measures adopted in countries including Australia, Italy and Brazil, the petitioners argued that similar safeguards should be introduced in Pakistan.

They also accused the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) of failing to adequately enforce its code of conduct, particularly regarding intimate scenes and alcohol-related content during child-viewing hours.

The petition names the federal government through the Ministry of Law and Justice, Ministry of Information Technology, National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), PEMRA and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) as respondents. It seeks amendments to PECA 2016, stricter enforcement of PEMRA’s content standards during child-viewing hours and cooperation with social media platforms to introduce effective parental controls.

The petitioners also invoked constitutional protections and Pakistan’s commitments under the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

The hearing was adjourned due to the absence of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) prosecutor.

Justice Muhammad Azam Khan presided over the hearing, while Mazari-Hazir and Chattha were represented by lawyers including Faisal Siddiqui, Riasat Ali Azad and Zainab Janjua.

In January, the couple was arrested and sentenced to 17 years in prison in connection with social media posts, including 10 years for cyber terrorism, five years for glorification of an offence and two years for spreading false and fake information under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). They challenged their convictions before the IHC in February, and their sentence suspension pleas were admitted in July.

On May 12, the Supreme Court ordered the IHC to decide the sentence suspension pleas within two weeks. Mazari-Hazir has also approached the Supreme Court seeking an expedited hearing of a separate appeal concerning her sentence.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had announced that it had initiated an internal disciplinary inquiry after media reports regarding discipline and conduct, which it said were being reviewed internally.

According to Dawn, the players appeared before the NCCIA in Lahore after being summoned via notices and were questioned for around four hours. They reportedly sought additional time to submit written responses, while they said their mobile phones were in the agency’s possession for forensic examination.The PCB had taken the phones into custody before handing them over to the authorities.

According to the NCCIA, the call centre was allegedly used to impersonate foreign bank officials and obtain victims’ sensitive personal and financial information, including debit and credit card details, which were then used for fraudulent transactions.

A case was registered under Sections 3, 4, 13, 14, 16 and 26 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2025, along with Sections 109 and 34 of the Pakistan Penal Code against Bilal Mateen; Taha Manzoor, Mawaz Bin Sami, Cyrus Zakariya, Tayab Mushtaq and Talha Khan. The agency said they were allegedly operating the call centre.

Several laptops, mobile phones and other electronic devices were seized and sent for examination