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By Malik Shahzad Aslam :
Authorities recover more than 300 active SIM cards as investigation expands into suspected cybercrime ring
The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has arrested a woman accused of operating an illegal network that allegedly used activated mobile SIM cards to create and sell fake WhatsApp accounts.
The arrest was carried out on Wednesday following a complaint lodged by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). According to the NCCIA, the suspect, identified as Safia Afzal, is a resident of Sahiwal.
Investigators allege that she acquired activated SIM cards through illegal channels, used them to register WhatsApp accounts under false identities and then sold those accounts to other individuals.
Investigation points to organised network
NCCIA officials believe the suspect may have been part of a larger organised operation involved in the misuse of digital identities.
Investigation Officer Umme Salma said authorities are working to identify and arrest other people suspected of facilitating the network.
Officials believe the group may have supplied fake digital identities for activities that could include online fraud, impersonation and other cyber-related offences.
Hundreds of active SIM cards recovered
During the operation, investigators recovered 310 activated SIM cards belonging to multiple mobile network operators, along with a mobile phone believed to have been used in the alleged operation.
The seized devices and digital evidence have been sent for forensic examination to determine how the SIM cards and WhatsApp accounts were used and whether additional suspects were involved.
Investigators are also examining financial records, digital communications and transaction histories to establish the scale of the alleged network.
Case registered under PECA
The NCCIA has registered a case against the suspect under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2016, including provisions introduced through the 2025 amendments, along with other applicable laws.
If proven, offences involving the illegal acquisition of SIM cards, identity misuse and cyber-enabled fraud can carry significant legal penalties under Pakistan’s cybercrime legislation.
Growing focus on digital identity abuse
The case comes as Pakistani authorities increase efforts to combat cybercrime involving fake digital identities, unauthorised SIM card usage and online fraud.
Law enforcement agencies have repeatedly warned that activated SIM cards obtained through illegal means can be used to create anonymous accounts on messaging platforms, making it more difficult to trace individuals involved in scams, financial fraud, misinformation campaigns and other criminal activities.
Officials have urged mobile users to ensure that SIM cards are registered only in their own names and to report any suspected misuse of their personal information to the relevant authorities.
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