The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has uncovered 139 online platforms allegedly involved in the illegal sale of sensitive data belonging to Pakistani citizens, sources told ProPakistani.
According to the investigation team, these platforms include websites, mobile applications, and social media accounts. The findings show that 18 mobile apps, 17 websites, and 2 YouTube channels were engaged in data trading. In addition, 75 Facebook accounts, 10 Instagram accounts, 12 Telegram accounts, and 10 TikTok accounts were identified as part of the network.
Investigators also discovered that citizens’ sensitive information was being sold through a WhatsApp group. Acting on the team’s recommendations, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has blocked all identified platforms, sources confirmed.
Authorities have stated that the next phase of the operation will involve the registration of formal cases and arrests of those responsible. Once detained, the suspects will be interrogated regarding the sources of the compromised data.
This large-scale exposure of digital malpractice has raised concerns over cybersecurity and data protection in the country, highlighting the urgent need for stricter regulatory oversight.