Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has urged women to avoid sharing personal photos and videos online amid concerns over cybercrime and blackmail. Speaking to the media in Lahore, he warned that criminals use such material to threaten victims. He also announced plans for a public awareness campaign against online harassment and fraud.
Naqvi said he visited the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) office to understand public complaints. He highlighted the number of harassment cases involving young girls reported to cybercrime authorities. The minister urged women and families to exercise caution when sharing personal images with others.
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According to Naqvi, criminals sometimes exploit private photos and videos to blackmail women. He stressed the need to educate young girls and the wider public about online risks. The planned awareness campaign will aim to help people recognise threats and avoid falling victim to digital crimes.
The minister also warned people against transferring money to strangers online. He said users should remain cautious when someone requests financial assistance, even when claiming to be ill. His remarks highlighted the risk of fraudsters using emotional stories to persuade people to send money.
Naqvi said the NCCIA currently has 61 personnel across Punjab. He acknowledged the need to strengthen staffing so officials can respond more effectively to public complaints. The government aims to improve the agency’s ability to investigate reports and address victims’ concerns.
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He also said cybercrime investigators had arrested suspects in several important cases. According to the minister, authorities would continue strengthening the cyber police to improve their effectiveness. He stressed that anyone involved in cybercrime could face action, regardless of whether they worked in government or elsewhere.
The planned awareness campaign will target young girls and members of the general public. It will focus on risks linked to sharing personal material online and sending money to unknown individuals. Naqvi reiterated that authorities would pursue people involved in cybercrime as efforts to improve investigations and public protection continue.