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Cybercrime cases in Pakistan have jumped 35% in 2025, driven largely by a sharp increase in WhatsApp hacking and online financial fraud, according to officials from the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). The majority of attacks reportedly originate from South Punjab and cross-border networks, raising concerns about the country’s digital security readiness.
Despite Pakistan’s improved ranking in the International Telecommunication Union’s Global Cybersecurity Index moving from 79th in 2021 to among the top 46 in 2024 the country continues to face growing threats due to low digital literacy and poor online safety awareness.
Last year, Visa reported that one in two Pakistanis fell victim to digital financial fraud, while one in five experienced multiple scams, underlining the scale of the problem.
According to NCCIA data:
- 73,000+ complaints were filed nationwide in 2024, but only 1,604 cases were formally registered.
- In Karachi alone, over 29,000 cybercrime complaints have been received so far in 2025 mostly related to financial scams, harassment, and data theft.
- The majority of attacks are linked to OTP phishing, social engineering, and fake online investment schemes.
An NCCIA spokesperson stated:
“Most victims unknowingly share personal or financial details online. The lack of cybersecurity awareness continues to be our biggest challenge.”
Authorities have called for nationwide digital awareness programs, urging schools and civil society to integrate cybersecurity education into curricula. The NCCIA has reportedly recovered millions of rupees in stolen funds this year, though many cases remain unresolved due to foreign-based hacking operations.
Cybersecurity experts warn that the rise in AI-driven scams and phishing techniques could make the situation worse unless stronger legal and educational measures are implemented.
