The federal government has decided to launch a major crackdown on illegal call centers across Pakistan.
The decision follows concerns over criminal activities linked to some call center operations. The development was reported by ARY News.
The move comes after the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency’s Operation Grey failed to control the issue.
Authorities have now formed a new task force to target illegal call centers. The team will operate under the Federal Investigation Agency headquarters.
The task force will include officers from sensitive government agencies. Officials from the FIA Cyber Crime Wing will also be part of the team.
The National Forensic Agency will provide support to the task force. Federal police and district administration officials will also participate.
Relevant government departments have been directed to assist the new task force. The team will investigate several forms of suspected criminal activity.
These activities include blackmail, gambling and fraudulent schemes. Authorities will also examine other unlawful operations linked to call centers.
The Ministry of Interior will receive daily updates about the crackdown. Officials will report details of actions taken against suspected illegal operations.
Sources said authorities have also prepared a list of call centers in Karachi. The list will help agencies identify locations for possible action.
The latest decision follows a major operation in Islamabad. The FIA and NCCIA conducted the raid at a call center in Sector I-10/3.
During the operation, 275 foreign nationals were detained. Officials said the individuals belonged to several countries, including China.
Authorities reportedly found evidence of unethical content creation at the facility. Officials said foreign men and women had been hired for such activities.
The investigation also raised concerns about other criminal activities at the call center. Authorities are examining the allegations as part of their legal proceedings.
The NCCIA registered cases under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act. The FIA also registered cases under the Foreigners Act.
The government’s latest move signals stronger action against illegal call centers. Authorities aim to identify networks involved in cybercrime and financial fraud.
The new task force is expected to coordinate operations among several government agencies. This approach could help authorities improve information sharing and investigations.
Officials have directed agencies to provide full cooperation during the crackdown. The government will also monitor progress through regular reports.
The action is part of wider efforts to address cybercrime and related offences. Authorities are expected to take further steps after reviewing information gathered during investigations.
The crackdown will focus on call centers suspected of violating Pakistani laws. Authorities said legal action will be taken where evidence of wrongdoing is established.
In other news read more about Illegal Call Centre Busted in Karachi, Multiple Suspects Arrested
With the new task force in place, operations against illegal call centers are expected to continue. Further developments will depend on ongoing investigations and intelligence reports.
