A new organised online scam has been exposed in Pakistan, with fraudsters allegedly using the name of cyber security to steal citizens’ data and extort money.
According to National CERT, citizens are being targeted on social media through fake offers of a “Cyber Hero Card,” cyber security training and free laptops.
National CERT said a social media page operating under the name “Cyber Secure Pakistan” is involved in the fraud. The page is reportedly being run from abroad and is using misleading posts to attract innocent citizens.
Citizens lured with free laptops
Officials said fraudsters are attempting to rob people by asking them to register for a fake Cyber Hero Card. Citizens are being lured with promises of cyber security training and free laptops.
According to National CERT, the scammers are collecting CNIC numbers and other personal information from people in the name of registration.
The picture and name of a federal minister are also being used to mislead the public and make the fake campaign appear official.
National CERT takes notice
National CERT has taken notice of the viral fake posts circulating on social media platforms.
A National CERT spokesperson told Samaa TV that the Cyber Hero Card announcement by Cyber Secure Pakistan is fake and has not been issued by National CERT or any other government institution.
The spokesperson warned citizens not to register under the lure of the Cyber Hero Card or free laptop offer. National CERT has also contacted the relevant social media platforms regarding the fake posts.
