NCCIA warns citizens against fake Rs13,000 cash reward messages in PM's name

Spokesperson says messages could contain links to steal personal information, banking details as agency urges caution

The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) on Monday warned citizens against fake messages circulating in the name of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, falsely offering a cash reward of Rs13,000, and advised the public not to click suspicious links or share personal and banking information.

According to an NCCIA spokesperson, cyber fraudsters were attempting to deceive citizens through fake reward messages claiming that PM Shehbaz was offering Rs13,000 in cash.

He said such messages could contain suspicious links designed to steal personal information and banking details, exposing citizens to online financial fraud.

Read: NCCIA arrests 273 people, including 42 minors, in Karachi call centre raid

The spokesperson urged citizens not to click on unverified links or provide personal information, bank account details or other sensitive data in response to such messages. He also advised the public to avoid forwarding fake messages to others and immediately report any suspicious communication to the relevant authorities.

Director General NCCIA Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi said the agency was following a zero-tolerance policy against cyber fraud and would continue taking action against those involved in online scams. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report cybercrime incidents through the NCCIA helpline 1799 or visit their nearest NCCIA circle office.