The Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing has taken decisive action against online loan apps following the tragic suicide of Muhammad Masood, a 42-year-old resident of Rawalpindi. Masood fell victim to blackmail by these apps, leading to his untimely demise.
Closure of Illegal Loan App Offices
In response to the incident, the FIA conducted searches and subsequently shut down two loan app offices located in Sector G8, Islamabad. As part of the operation, laptops and computers were seized as evidence.
Collaboration with SECP and Request to PTA
The FIA spokesperson disclosed that the agency is working in conjunction with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) to gather data on illicit loan applications. Moreover, the FIA plans to take further actions against any discovered apps involved in illegal practices. They will also request the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to disable these unlawful loan applications and take steps to curb online advertisements linked to unauthorized loan apps.
Encouraging Complaints and Reporting
To address the issue comprehensively, the FIA encourages victims of harassment by such loan apps to file complaints with the Cybercrime Circle. They also urge individuals to promptly report incidents of blackmail or any other form of abuse.
