ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has issued a strong data protection advisory, urging citizens to protect their personal information online.
The warning comes amid rising incidents of identity theft and misuse of citizens’ CNIC numbers. NADRA said that several unauthorized websites and mobile apps are posing as official platforms to steal sensitive data.
According to the advisory, scammers are tricking people by offering fake rewards in exchange for personal details. These details, once collected, are often used illegally, leading to serious risks like fraudulent SIM registrations or unauthorized financial transactions.
NADRA stressed that sharing identity data with unverified sources is extremely dangerous. Citizens are advised not to give photocopies of their CNICs unless absolutely necessary. The use of original documents is enough for most official procedures.
The authority highlighted the importance of using only NADRA’s Pak Identity app for submitting biometric and identity information. Any app or site that is not officially linked to NADRA should be considered a potential scam.
This alert follows a recent data breach where the information of over 2.7 million Pakistanis was reportedly leaked. In response, NADRA has renewed its commitment to cybersecurity and public awareness.
NADRA also reminded citizens to report any suspicious websites or apps claiming to be associated with the authority. Public cooperation is key to ensuring data privacy and national security.
Earlier, NADRA simplified the process of acquiring Succession Certificates. People can now apply through any of the 186 Succession Facilitation Units (SFUs) across the country, making the system more accessible.
The NADRA data protection advisory is part of an ongoing effort to build trust and safeguard citizens’ digital identities.
Read more about the latest developments in counter‑smuggling operations here: FIA arrests key human smuggling suspects.
