To report a cybercrime in Pakistan — online harassment, blackmail, hacking, financial fraud, defamation or a fake account — you file a complaint with the cybercrime authority (the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency, NCCIA, alongside the FIA framework) either online through its complaint portal or in person at a regional office, supported by evidence. Cyber offences are prosecuted under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016.
What counts as a cybercrime under PECA
- Online harassment, stalking and blackmail
- Hacking / unauthorised access to accounts or devices
- Financial fraud, online scams and unauthorised transactions
- Fake profiles and identity theft
- Non-consensual sharing of private images
- Online defamation and hate speech
Evidence to collect BEFORE you file
- Screenshots of messages, posts, profiles and transactions (with dates/times visible)
- URLs / profile links of the offending accounts
- Phone numbers, emails or usernames involved
- Transaction IDs / bank records for financial fraud
Do not delete the original chats or evidence — preserve them.
Step-by-step: filing the complaint
- Preserve evidence as above.
- Go to the official complaint portal of the cyber crime authority (NCCIA), or visit a regional office.
- Submit the complaint form — complete all mandatory fields with your CNIC, contact details and a clear description.
- Attach your evidence.
- Note your complaint/reference number for follow-up.
- Cooperate with the investigation — you may be called to record a statement.
Your rights and what to expect
You can seek removal of harmful content, investigation of the offender, and prosecution under PECA. For urgent harassment or blackmail, act quickly and consider engaging a lawyer to draft the complaint and follow up, especially if the matter escalates to court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I report cybercrime in Pakistan in 2026?
To the national cyber crime authority (NCCIA) — online via its complaint portal or in person at a regional office — under the PECA 2016 framework.
Can I file a cybercrime complaint online?
Yes, through the official complaint portal. Keep your reference number for follow-up.
What evidence do I need for a cybercrime complaint?
Screenshots, profile/URL links, phone numbers or emails, and transaction records for fraud — preserve the originals.
Is online harassment a crime in Pakistan?
Yes. Online harassment, blackmail and related offences are punishable under PECA 2016.
Should I hire a lawyer for a cybercrime case?
For serious harassment, blackmail, fraud or cases likely to go to court, a lawyer helps draft the complaint, protect your rights and pursue prosecution.
Sensitive-topic note: If you are dealing with online blackmail or harassment and feel unsafe, prioritise your safety and reach out to trusted people and the authorities right away.
Targeted by online fraud, blackmail or defamation? Saleem & Saleem advises on cybercrime complaints and litigation.
