The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has warned people in Pakistan against online scams that use fake calls, messages and links to steal personal information and gain access to their accounts. The authority has urged users not to click on suspicious links, share passwords, or respond to unverified calls without checking who is contacting them.
The warning was issued as part of Cybersecurity Awareness Week 2026 to raise awareness about phishing and social engineering scams.
How These Scams Work
PTA said cybercriminals trick people into sharing sensitive information or giving them unauthorised access to their accounts. They may use fake prize offers, misleading messages, or pretend to represent banks, companies, and government departments to gain people’s trust.
How to Protect Yourself
The authority has advised users to follow these precautions:
- Never share one-time passwords (OTPs), personal identification numbers (PINs) or account passwords with anyone.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links.
- Independently verify the identity of callers who claim to represent banks, companies, or government officials.
- Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts.
- Enable two-factor authentication to add another layer of security.
- Keep devices and applications updated.
- Limit the amount of personal information shared on online platforms.
Stay Alert to Online Fraud
PTA has urged internet users to think carefully before clicking on links and remain alert to attempts to deceive them online. The awareness campaign aims to promote safer internet habits and protect personal information from phishing attacks and other forms of cybercrime.
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