ISLAMABAD: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has issued a New Year alert warning citizens to stay vigilant against a surge in online scams as celebrations for the coming year draw closer.
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In an advisory released on Monday, the NCCIA cautioned that cybercriminals often exploit festive occasions to deceive people through fraudulent messages, fake links and false promises of rewards. The agency said that as New Year approaches, users typically receive a higher volume of congratulatory messages and promotional offers, creating opportunities for scammers to target unsuspecting individuals.
نیشنل سائبر کرائم انویسٹی گیشن ایجنسی این سی سی آئی اے نے نئے سال کے موقع پر جعلی لنکس اور جعلی تحائف کے پیغامات کے حوالے سے الرٹ جاری کر دیا ہے۔ این سی سی آئی اے کے مطابق نئے سال کی آمد پر مبارکباد کے لنکس اور جعلی تحائف کے پیغامات سوشل میڈیا پر زیر گردش ہیں، لہٰذا صارفین کسی… pic.twitter.com/SZ8bBFyEE5
— Times of Karachi (@TOKCityOfLights) December 29, 2025
According to the alert, fake New Year greetings carrying malicious links and messages promising bogus gifts, prizes or cash rewards are circulating widely. The NCCIA urged the public not to click on unknown links, download suspicious attachments or share personal information, including bank details and one-time passwords, with unverified sources.
The agency stressed that fraudsters frequently impersonate trusted organisations, brands or even acquaintances on messaging platforms and social media. Citizens were advised to verify the authenticity of any offer before responding and to report suspicious activity to relevant authorities.
Earlier, the NCCIA had also issued emergency protocols to guide users in case their WhatsApp accounts are hacked, following a noticeable increase in such incidents. Officials explained that if users suspect unauthorised access or lose control of their account, they should immediately uninstall and reinstall WhatsApp to re-register their phone number.
Upon reinstallation, users will receive a six-digit verification code via SMS, which should be entered promptly. NCCIA officials said that entering the code automatically logs out the hacker, as WhatsApp allows only one active session per device at a time.
If hackers have enabled the “Two-Step Verification” feature and the user does not know the PIN, WhatsApp may require a waiting period of up to seven days. The agency reassured users that during this time, their messages remain inaccessible to others.
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The NCCIA advised citizens to use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, avoid sharing verification codes and remain cautious online to ensure a safe and scam-free New Year.