Bank of Punjab clarifies credit card glitch

The Bank of Punjab (BOP) has dismissed reports circulating on social media and in sections of the media regarding a cyberattack on its systems termed the claims inaccurate and misleading.

According to the bank, routine monitoring identified irregular credit card transactions, prompting an immediate internal review.

The review established that the issue stemmed from a temporary technical glitch in the credit card system, which allowed a limited number of existing customers to carry out unauthorized transactions.

BOP clarified that the affected cases were not linked to any specific government initiative or scheme, including the Asaan Karobar Card, and involved only a defined group of credit card holders.

The bank emphasized that the issue was not the result of any cyber intrusion. The identified system gap has since been fully rectified, and a system update carried out on Friday, January 2, 2026, was unrelated to the credit card matter.

Recovery actions are underway in line with standard banking procedures. Most affected customers have already approached the bank and begun settling over-limit amounts, while remedial measures continue to be implemented.

The bank further stated that claims regarding the total financial impact are speculative, exaggerated, and incorrect, adding that the situation remains fully manageable.

Impacted credit card holders have already been contacted directly. Customers who have not been approached by the bank remain unaffected and do not face any risk.

BOP also advised customers to remain cautious of unauthorized advances and to engage only with verified bank officials after proper identification. Customers were urged not to entertain individuals whose legitimacy appears doubtful.