Watch out! Fraudsters using fake PTA calls, messages to steal personal data

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued an urgent warning, cautioning citizens against a rise in phishing scams where fraudsters are attempting to obtain personal information by impersonating the regulatory body.

The PTA said that it will never contact individuals via call, email or message to request sensitive personal details such as passwords, One-Time Passwords (OTPs), or online credentials.

"Stay cautious — PTA will NEVER ask for your personal details, passwords, or OTPs via call, email, or message. Protect yourself and stay vigilant," the authority stated in its alert.

The PTA urged the public to be extremely wary of fake calls, emails, and messages designed to trick them into divulging confidential information. Citizens are advised not to click on suspicious links or share any personal data with unknown parties.

To combat these fraudulent activities, the PTA has also provided contact numbers for reporting such incidents:

• For blocking scam numbers: Report to PTA at toll free: 080055055
• For investigation: Contact the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) at: 1991
• For financial frauds: Report to the State Bank of Pakistan at: (021) 111723273

The authority stressed the importance of protecting personal information and reporting any suspicious activity immediately to help curb these malicious attempts.