Can hackers steal phone data? PTA warns over fake cyber alert
PTA rejects viral cyber warning
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority said it did not issue the cybersecurity warning being shared online. The authority described the viral notification as fake and asked people to avoid spreading unverified claims.
The fake alert claimed that answering a call from a particular landline number could give hackers access to mobile phone data and personal accounts. It further alleged that users’ information could be stolen within five to seven seconds of answering the call.
Public urged to check official sources
The PTA advised people to ignore such messages and avoid forwarding them on social media. The authority warned that unverified cybersecurity claims can create unnecessary fear and confusion.
Citizens were also asked to depend on the PTA’s official communication channels and verified social media accounts for genuine security warnings. This would help people avoid falling for false information circulating online.
PTA reports major cybercrime operations
The warning comes after the PTA chairman recently shared details of joint operations with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency. During raids, officials recovered biometric records linked to around 600,000 people.
The disclosure was made during a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Interior. The figures highlighted the scale of efforts against illegal activities involving telecom services and digital data.
125 raids lead to arrests and SIM recovery
According to the PTA chairman, the authority carried out 125 raids in cooperation with cybercrime authorities. The operations resulted in the recovery of 25,000 SIM cards and the arrest of 171 people.
The latest warning shows the importance of checking cybersecurity information before sharing it. While authorities continue taking action against genuine cyber threats, the public is also being urged to remain careful about fake alerts.
The viral alert shows how quickly false cybersecurity information can spread online. People should check official sources before believing or forwarding such warnings.
The PTA’s advice is simple: do not share unverified alerts. Genuine security updates should be confirmed through official channels before taking any action.
Also read: PTA introduces new policy for 180-day mobile balance validity
Also read: PTA system now detects unregistered mobile phones and illegal devices
