The director general of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), Khurram Ali, announced on Friday that the main factor behind WhatsApp account breaches is the sharing of one-time passwords (OTPs).
In a press conference in Islamabad, Ali highlighted an increase in incidents involving compromised WhatsApp and bank accounts across Pakistan. He mentioned that the NCCIA has developed an action plan to address the issue of WhatsApp hacking.
Ali revealed that a dedicated helpline is being established to assist victims in reclaiming their compromised accounts. Additionally, the agency plans to launch a public awareness campaign in local languages, partnering with Meta, to educate users on online safety practices.
He urged users to activate two-factor verification and emphasized the importance of never sharing confidential verification codes received on their phones with anyone.
“Sharing an OTP is the leading cause of WhatsApp account hacks,” he stated, adding that efforts are underway to implement technological measures to prevent OTP misuse.
Ali also explained that the rise in online crimes correlates with increased internet and smartphone usage, which has led to a spike in cyber fraud. He noted that several cybercriminal groups operating within Pakistan have been apprehended through international cooperation and advised users to take appropriate security steps to protect their WhatsApp and banking information.
In May, Ali announced that the NCCIA had dismantled an organized ring in South Punjab responsible for selling sensitive personal data of prominent individuals for just a few thousand rupees. During a press briefing, he mentioned that four suspects involved in data selling had been arrested. He further explained that the group was involved in leaking and selling information related to key figures, with investigations revealing that some insiders within various institutions had provided access to sensitive data.