Cybercrime Agency Busts Online Job Scam Network in Multan

The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has successfully busted a fake online job and training network in Multan, marking a major breakthrough in Pakistan’s ongoing efforts against digital fraud. The scam had been deceiving citizens with false promises of employment and skill development opportunities.

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NCCIA Operation in Multan Uncovers Massive Online Fraud

According to the NCCIA spokesperson, the operation was carried out at a private school located on Bosan Road, Multan. The cybercrime team discovered that the group was running a fake institution under the name Natural Life Skill Training Institute. This so-called institute was involved in large-scale fraud, tricking innocent individuals into paying heavy registration fees for non-existent online jobs and training programs.

During the operation, officials arrested eight suspects, including the ringleader Abdul Ghaffar. The other members were identified as Nisar Ahmed, Muawiya, Huzaifa Tanveer, Hammad Hassan, Asad Saleem, Khalid, and Zain Abbas. The agency revealed that this gang had been running a well-organized setup that targeted young job seekers through social media platforms and messaging apps.

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How the Fake Job Scam Network Operated

The fake online job network used digital marketing tactics to attract people who were looking for remote job opportunities or online training. The scammers created social media advertisements and WhatsApp groups claiming to offer professional development courses and guaranteed job placements.

Victims were asked to pay registration or training fees, which were often presented as refundable. Once the payments were made, the scammers either disappeared or blocked the victims from all communication channels. In many cases, the fraudsters also used personal data for blackmail and identity theft.

During the operation, NCCIA officers seized mobile phones, laptops, and other digital devices used in the fraudulent activities. They also recovered financial records and chat logs from WhatsApp and Telegram groups, confirming evidence of both monetary fraud and blackmail.

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Legal Action and Ongoing Investigation

A case (No. 252/2025) has been registered against the suspects under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016 and multiple sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). The arrested individuals are currently under investigation, and authorities believe that more people may be connected to this network operating in other cities.

The NCCIA has also urged citizens to stay alert and report suspicious online job offers immediately through their official website or helpline. The agency emphasized that legitimate organizations never ask for upfront payments in exchange for employment or online training.

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Online Job Scams – A Growing Threat in Pakistan

Online job scams have become increasingly common in Pakistan over the past few years. With more people turning to digital platforms for work-from-home opportunities, cybercriminals have found new ways to exploit this trend. Many fake institutes and websites promise quick earnings or international remote jobs, preying on students, fresh graduates, and unemployed individuals.

These scams not only result in financial loss but can also lead to emotional distress and reputational harm. Victims often hesitate to report such crimes due to embarrassment or fear of being blamed. However, the recent operation by the NCCIA shows that the government is taking strict actions to curb this menace and bring cybercriminals to justice.

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How to Identify and Avoid Online Job Scams

To protect yourself from falling victim to similar frauds, here are some key tips:

1. Verify the company or institute’s registration before applying.
2. Avoid paying any registration or training fees for online job opportunities.
3. Check official websites and LinkedIn pages for job listings instead of social media ads.
4. Beware of offers that sound too good to be true, such as guaranteed jobs without interviews.
5. Never share your personal data or bank details with unverified sources.
6. Report suspicious activity to the NCCIA or FIA Cybercrime Wing.

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NCCIA’s Role in Combating Digital Fraud

The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency has been actively working to protect Pakistani citizens from digital crimes. Their efforts include tracking online fraud networks, conducting awareness campaigns, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies to ensure cyber safety. The success of this operation in Multan highlights the importance of vigilance and the effectiveness of cybercrime monitoring systems.

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Conclusion

The Cybercrime Agency’s bust of the online job scam network in Multan serves as a strong reminder that cybercriminals are becoming more creative, but justice is catching up with them. The NCCIA’s swift action not only stopped a large-scale fraud operation but also safeguarded countless citizens from future exploitation.
As technology continues to advance, staying informed and cautious is the best defense against online scams.