The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has issued a public advisory urging citizens to safeguard their personal information and avoid sharing data with unauthorized websites or mobile applications amid rising concerns over identity theft.
In a statement released on Wednesday, NADRA warned that fraudulent platforms impersonating the authority are targeting citizens by offering incentives in exchange for sensitive identity details, including CNIC numbers and biometric data, which are later used for illegal activities.
Citing recent reports, the authority revealed that scammers have exploited numerous individuals by enticing them with false offers in return for ID information. “Protecting your data online is not just a precaution—it is a necessity in today’s digital age,” NADRA stated.
The advisory emphasized that citizens should avoid submitting unnecessary photocopies of CNICs, especially to unknown individuals or for unofficial guarantees. Instead, NADRA urged the public to rely solely on its official application, Pak Identity, for all identity-related services.
The authority also clarified that original documents are sufficient for most official processes and that photocopies are often not required. Citizens are encouraged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious websites or platforms falsely claiming affiliation with NADRA.
This alert follows a recent data breach affecting approximately 2.7 million Pakistanis, prompting NADRA to reinforce its commitment to cybersecurity and public awareness.
In a related development, NADRA has also simplified the process of obtaining Succession Certificates. Citizens can now apply at any of the 186 Succession Facilitation Units (SFUs) established at NADRA centers nationwide, regardless of the province where the inherited property is located.