ISLAMABAD: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency has dismantled a gang allegedly selling sensitive personal data of government officers to foreign entities, arresting four people in Punjab.

NCCIA Director General Syed Khurram Ali told a press conference on Friday that the group was obtaining and selling call records, CNICs and passports of key officials.

The suspects taken into custody were identified as Arshad Tariq, Arham Bari, Anam Sabir and Mohammad Rizwan. Forensic examinations have been conducted on their mobile phones. Mr Ali said the suspects were sharing the data with foreign intelligence agencies, describing it as “organised espionage and cybercrime”.

Cases have been registered over the illegal transfer of data outside Pakistan, and the agency is examining institutional staff emails to determine how the information was accessed.

The agency has directed government institutions to strengthen data security and ensure information is not accessed by unauthorised individuals.

“Responsibility for safeguarding sensitive data rests with those granted access,” Mr Ali said. Investigations are ongoing to identify officials who facilitated the breach.

He said the NCCIA had also identified gangs involved in leaking personal identity and banking data of ordinary citizens. A joint committee of NCCIA and the State Bank of Pakistan is working on the issue, and action is being taken against officials found involved in selling data.

He said NCCIA was investigating the alleged harassment of actress Momina Iqbal, with the Lahore office handling the case.

“Cases linked to women are the top priority for the NCCIA,” he said. Mr Ali also disclosed the arrest of individuals running an online campaign for Swat to become part of Afghanistan. “If NCCIA does not take action against those who do not trust the state of Pakistan, then what should it do?” he asked.

“Action will be taken against those who speak against the state.” He said journalists were the “eyes and ears of society”, but action would be taken against those who act against the state. NCCIA currently has 480 personnel across the country, and capacity-building efforts are underway, he added.

Published in Dawn, May 23rd, 2026