Online fraud is increasingly prevalent in South Punjab, as scammers exploit advanced technology and social media to target unsuspecting victims. In 2024, Multan alone has reported over 1,500 instances of online fraud.
One victim, Muhammad Daniyal, shared his experience of ordering a cellphone online, only to receive a bar of soap instead.
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This is just one example of the many scams that continue to affect citizens, with 705 cases related to online shopping fraud, 605 involving bank account hacks, and 151 tied to fraudulent activities related to the Benazir Income Support Program.
Law enforcement has managed to arrest more than 300 individuals involved in these online crimes. CPO Multan, Sadiq Ali Dogar, remarked that joint efforts have exposed numerous criminal gangs involved in fraudulent bank transactions and fake product deliveries, showing progress in tackling these crimes.
Experts stress the need for the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to take a leading role in addressing the growing problem of online fraud in South Punjab.