NCCIA Warns Citizens Against Using Free Public Wi-Fi, Cautions of Cybersecurity Risks
ISLAMABAD: The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has issued a warning to citizens using free and unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, cautioning that their personal information and online accounts could be exposed to cybercrime.
According to the advisory, citizens have been urged to exercise caution when connecting mobile phones, laptops and other digital devices to public Wi-Fi networks, particularly when the authenticity and security of a connection cannot be verified.
The agency warned that cybercriminals often create fake Wi-Fi networks using names similar to those of well-known businesses, hotels, cafes and local shops to deceive unsuspecting users.
The NCCIA advised citizens against accessing bank accounts, transferring money or making online purchases through unverified public Wi-Fi connections. Hackers can exploit unsecured networks to steal passwords and sensitive financial information, it cautioned.
The agency recommended that users verify the correct name of a Wi-Fi network with staff when visiting hotels, cafes and other public places.
It also advised citizens to use mobile data for banking and other sensitive financial transactions and to disconnect immediately from suspicious networks.
NCCIA warns against sharing illegal online content
Separately, NCCIA Additional Director and Lahore Zone chief SP Atif Aamir issued a warning regarding cybercrime and the sharing of illegal online content.
He said the agency was using advanced artificial intelligence (AI) technology to identify illegal content while investigating cybercrime cases and coordinating with relevant institutions.
Atif Aamir also warned that storing or sharing inappropriate material involving children on mobile phones could lead to strict legal action.
He urged citizens who encounter such material to report it immediately to the relevant authorities instead of forwarding or sharing it further.
The warnings form part of the agency’s efforts to raise public awareness about online security, prevent cybercrime and discourage the circulation of illegal digital content.
