Fake NADRA website busted in Lahore as NCCIA uncovers massive data operation

Summary LAHORE: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has busted a gang in Lahore allegedly involved in operating a fraudulent website designed to impersonate the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and obtain and sell sensitive personal information of millions of citizens. According to NCCIA officials, the suspects allegedly obtained and illegally sold sensitive personal data belonging to more than 10 million citizens through the fraudulent online portal. The suspects allegedly used the platform to impersonate the national identity authority and lure citizens into entering personal and confidential information. AI Generated Summary LAHORE: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has busted a gang in Lahore allegedly involved in operating a fraudulent website designed to impersonate the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) and obtain and sell sensitive personal information of millions of citizens. According to NCCIA officials, the suspects allegedly obtained and illegally sold sensitive personal data belonging to more than 10 million citizens through the fraudulent online portal. The Director of NCCIA confirmed the development, saying the accused were operating a fake website under a name similar to NADRA. The suspects allegedly used the platform to impersonate the national identity authority and lure citizens into entering personal and confidential information. According to the official, the accused obtained sensitive data of more than one crore citizens and were allegedly involved in its illegal sale through underground networks. Following the operation, the NCCIA shut down the fraudulent website and its associated links to prevent further collection or misuse of citizens' information. The case has raised concerns over the growing threat posed by fake government websites and online platforms that attempt to deceive users into handing over confidential information. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant when accessing NADRA-related online services. People have been advised to verify website addresses carefully and use only official NADRA channels when providing personal information. Citizens have also been warned against sharing sensitive details such as CNIC numbers, biometric information and one-time passwords (OTPs) on suspicious websites or through unverified links. Officials said the investigation is continuing, with investigators attempting to trace individuals who allegedly purchased the stolen information. Authorities are also working to determine whether other people or networks were involved in obtaining, distributing or selling the data. The investigation could provide further details about the scale of the alleged operation and the methods used by the suspects to acquire citizens' information. The NCCIA's action comes amid increasing concerns about digital privacy and the protection of sensitive personal information. The misuse of identity data can expose individuals to risks including identity theft, financial fraud and other forms of cybercrime. Authorities have advised citizens to exercise particular caution when receiving links through social media messaging applications emails or other unsolicited sources. The NCCIA said further developments in the case are expected as the investigation progresses and officials work to identify the alleged buyers and other individuals connected to the data-selling network.