Web Desk: A big scandal has come to light involving the illegal use of the biometric verification system for issuing fake SIM cards and committing bank fraud.
The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has under arrest a gang involved in the activation of duplicate SIMs used to siphon money from citizens’ bank accounts.
According to the NCCIA, the arrested group was obtaining duplicate SIM cards through unlawful means and using them to transfer large sums of money from multiple bank accounts. Initial investigations revealed that the suspects misused the NADRA-linked Mobile Biometric Verification System (MBVS) to issue fake SIMs in the names of unsuspecting citizens.
The agency stated that the arrested suspects include Usman, Nair, and Riaz, who were operating the network in an organized manner.
During the operation, NCCIA recovered SIM activation devices, suspected digital records, and other evidence from the suspects’ possession. The agency added that investigations are being expedited from multiple angles and further arrests are likely.
Cybersecurity experts have warned that to prevent such fraud, banks urgently need to upgrade their systems. Experts noted that many banks rely on locally developed software, which has proven vulnerable to modern cyberattacks.
PTA warns SIM holders: registered individuals responsible for misuse
Earlier it was reported that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) reminded mobile phone users across the country that all SIM cards must be registered in the user’s own name.
PTA warned that misuse of a registered connection could lead to legal action as it is a violation of the telecom regulations.
It was stressed that the registered owner of a SIM bears full legal responsibility for any activity carried out through that connection.
This includes all calls, messages, and data usage, regardless of who is actually using the SIM.
According to the PTA statement, registered users will be held individually accountable for all calls, messages, and data usage made through their SIMs or devices.
The PTA advised consumers to exercise caution and use their mobile connections responsibly at all times.
Also read: PTA warns SIM holders: registered individuals responsible for misuse
