ISLAMABAD: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has cautioned citizens against fraudulent messages falsely claiming that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is offering Rs13,000 in cash rewards.
In a warning issued on Monday, an NCCIA spokesperson said scammers were circulating fake messages using the prime minister’s name to trick people into clicking suspicious links and sharing sensitive information.
The agency said the messages could contain malicious links designed to obtain users’ personal details, banking information and other confidential data, potentially exposing them to financial losses.
Citizens have been advised to ignore such offers and avoid clicking on links received through unverified messages. The NCCIA also urged people not to share their bank account details, passwords or personal information in response to these communications.
The spokesperson further warned against forwarding suspicious messages, asking citizens to report fraudulent communications to the relevant authorities.
NCCIA Director General Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi said the agency was maintaining a zero-tolerance policy towards cyber fraud and would continue action against individuals involved in online scams.
He urged the public to remain alert and report cybercrime complaints through the agency’s helpline 1799 or by visiting their nearest NCCIA circle office.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over online scams in which fraudsters impersonate government officials and public figures to gain access to citizens’ personal and financial information.
