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Saturday, May 10, 2025

Pakistan launches National Cybercrime Investigation agency

Pakistan’s National Cybercrime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), which was previously a division of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), is currently functioning independently. The move aims to tackle rising cyber threats, including internet fraud, harassment, data breaches, social media crimes, and identity theft.

The NCCIA was created under the amended Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), which has faced criticism from journalists and rights groups for allegedly restricting press freedom and controlling dissent online. Pakistani officials defend the law, emphasizing its focus on combating digital crimes while regulating social media content.

The new agency has full authority to investigate and prosecute cybercrimes, with dedicated resources to address public complaints. It can be contacted via helpline 0519106691 or email at helpdesk@nr3c.gov.pk.

Meanwhile, concerns remain over Pakistan’s press freedom, as the country ranks 152nd out of 180 on the global press freedom index. Social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube have faced bans in the past, with X currently blocked but accessible via VPNs. Critics fear the NCCIA could further tighten digital freedoms, though the government insists its focus is on security.

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