RAWALPINDI: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has arrested an accused involved in harassment and extortion through Instagram and obtained his three-day physical remand, an NCCIA spokesman said on Friday.

An FIR was registered against the accused, a resident of DHA, Islamabad, on the complaint of a resident of Pakistan Town Phase II, Islamabad.

The spokesman said the accused, who allegedly blackmailed victims through social media, was arrested and produced before a court by the NCCIA Cyber Crime Circle Islamabad for remand. The court granted a three-day physical remand for further investigation, as important revelations are expected from the accused’s mobile phone.

He said the accused allegedly made a woman’s indecent photos viral and demanded money. The NCIA reiterated that there would be no compromise on cases of harassment and blackmail, adding that those involved in such crimes would be dealt with strictly.

Meanwhile, NCCIA conducted a major awareness campaign in Rawalpindi, during which around 4,000 students were briefed on cyber security. The awareness session was held through a seminar titled Modern Age Digital Challenges at APS and FWO schools and colleges.

The spokesman said the seminar focused on the safe use of the internet, privacy settings on social media and the risks associated with contacting unknown individuals online. Students were also informed about cyber fraud prevention, tips to avoid banking fraud, fake links, and Easypaisa and JazzCash-related scams.

Additionally, participants were briefed on data security, the importance of two-factor authentication (2FA) and the use of strong passwords.

Published in Dawn, January 24th, 2026