ISLAMABAD, Apr 13 (APP):The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a comprehensive public safety advisory urging citizens to remain vigilant against the increasing frequency of online scams and financial fraud. In an awareness campaign, the telecom regulator highlighted common tactics used by fraudsters to deprive individuals of their hard-earned money. According to the PTA, scammers often lure unsuspecting victims with fake promises of large cash prizes or lottery winnings. These …
PTA issues advisory warning citizens against rising online scams
ISLAMABAD, Apr 13 (APP):The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a comprehensive public safety advisory urging citizens to remain vigilant against the increasing frequency of online scams and financial fraud.
In an awareness campaign, the telecom regulator highlighted common tactics used by fraudsters to deprive individuals of their hard-earned money.
According to the PTA, scammers often lure unsuspecting victims with fake promises of large cash prizes or lottery winnings.
These criminals typically attempt to gain access to personal data by sending malicious links via SMS or social media, or by impersonating bank officials to obtain sensitive financial information, including account details and PINs.
The authority emphasized that “caution is the best defense” and urged the public not to engage with suspicious communications.
To streamline the reporting process, the PTA has provided multiple platforms for victims and potential targets to lodge complaints.
Citizens can report suspicious activity through the official PTA complaint portal or via the PTA CMS mobile application.
Recognizing the complexity of cyber-enabled financial crimes, the advisory outlines a tiered reporting structure.
For general cybercrimes and online harassment, the public has been advised to contact the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) via its dedicated helpline at 1999.
For incidents involving mobile banking or unauthorized financial transactions, victims should immediately alert the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) at (021) 111-727-273.
The PTA reiterated its commitment to securing Pakistan’s digital ecosystem, reminding the public that official organizations never ask for passwords or financial credentials over the phone or through unsecured links.
