Govt investigates illegal sale of citizens’ data amid growing online security concerns

The illegal sale of Pakistani citizens’ private data continues on various websites despite some efforts to block the platforms. Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi took notice of the situation on Sunday. 

Despite earlier reports from October 2024, citizens’ personal data, including details of federal ministers, senior government officials, and ordinary people, is still available for sale on multiple websites. 

According to a news report, the data is being openly listed at fixed prices on these platforms, with mobile phone location data priced at Rs500, mobile data record details at Rs3,500, and foreign travel details at Rs5,000. 

Additionally, information linked to an International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number is being sold for Rs25,000, while colored copies of computerized national identity cards (CNICs) are also listed for sale.

The Interior Minister has instructed the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) to initiate a prompt investigation into these illegal activities. In response, the NCCIA issued a formal notification forming a special investigation team to probe the matter. 

The team is headed by the NCCIA additional director in Islamabad and includes key members such as Deputy Director Network Security Akram Mughal, Assistant Director CCRC Imran Haider, Assistant Director Forensics Muzammil Hussain, Inspector Investigations Badr Shehzad, and Technical Assistant Cybercrime Anis ur Rehman.

The notification also grants the special team the authority to collaborate with other agencies or institutions as needed to expedite the investigation.

As the government intensifies its efforts to curb the illegal trade of citizens’ private data, concerns over online security continue to rise.