Cybercrime Complaints Surge in Pakistan

The Federal Investigative Agency (FIA) has seen a significant increase in cybercrime complaints over the past three years, highlighting the growing threat of digital offenses in Pakistan.

According to the FIA, the number of cybercrime complaints has risen steadily since 2021, with a peak in 2022. While there was a slight decline in 2023, the overall trend indicates a concerning upward trajectory.

Despite the increase in complaints, the number of inquiries conducted by the FIA has fluctuated over the three-year period. While inquiries saw a decrease in 2022, they experienced a substantial surge in 2023, suggesting a greater focus on investigating cybercrimes.

To effectively combat cybercrime, Pakistan must prioritize the following measures:

• Enhanced Cybersecurity Infrastructure: Invest in robust cybersecurity infrastructure to protect critical systems and data from attacks.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate the public about cyber threats, best practices for online safety, and the importance of reporting suspicious activity.
• Capacity Building: Train law enforcement personnel and cybersecurity professionals to stay ahead of evolving cybercrime techniques.
• International Cooperation: Collaborate with international law enforcement agencies and cybersecurity experts to share information and combat transnational crime.
• Legal Framework: Strengthen the legal framework governing cybercrime to ensure effective prosecution and deterrence.

The increasing prevalence of cybercrime in Pakistan underscores the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and public awareness campaigns. Individuals and businesses must be equipped with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves from cyber threats.