Online Fraud Alert: PTA Warns Citizens Against Scam Calls and Messages

Islamabad: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued a warning to citizens amid a significant rise in online fraud incidents across the country.

According to PTA, various groups are deceiving people with promises of prize money, tricking them into revealing personal or financial information. Fraudsters are reportedly using fake calls and messages to persuade recipients to click on suspicious links or share banking details, leading to financial losses.

A PTA spokesperson emphasized that demanding confidential information under the pretense of winning a prize constitutes a criminal activity that can put citizens’ savings at risk.

The authority has urged the public to report any suspicious messages or calls immediately through the PTA website or mobile app. Complaints can also be filed with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency via its helpline at 1799, enabling legal action against the perpetrators.

PTA further reminded users to stay cautious of scam calls and fraudulent SMSs offering prizes in exchange for scratch card codes, which have previously caused substantial losses. Citizens have been advised not to trust unverified information and to verify any such offers with their mobile service provider before responding.

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