The federal government has formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe a major data breach involving mobile SIM registration records, the Ministry of Interior announced on Sunday.
The move came after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi took immediate notice of reports about the leak of sensitive registration data. In a series of posts from the ministry’s official account, @MOIofficialGoP, it was confirmed that the issue is being treated as a matter of urgent national concern.
NCCIA tasked with leading probe
The National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has been directed to lead a “private and thorough investigation” into the leak. According to the ministry, “criminal elements” are suspected of being behind the breach, which compromised the SIM registration data system.
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The SIT has been given a strict 14-day deadline to complete its inquiry and submit a detailed report to the Ministry of Interior. Its mandate includes:
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Identifying those responsible for the breach
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Recommending legal action against perpetrators
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Proposing measures to prevent future violations
Govt signals seriousness on cybersecurity
The ministry stressed that the objective is not only to bring culprits under the legal framework but also to strengthen protections around citizen data. Officials noted that details about the scale of the breach and the specific registration system involved would be shared once the investigation is complete.
The move reflects growing government concerns over cybersecurity and data protection in Pakistan, especially amid increasing threats to digital infrastructure.
The SIT’s findings are expected within two weeks, a report that will likely shape Pakistan’s future cyber policy and safeguards.