Punjab issues alert over rising WhatsApp hacking and impersonation fraud cases

The Punjab Home Department has issued an emergency advisory across the province in response to a rising number of WhatsApp hacking and impersonation-based fraud cases.

According to the advisory, all administrative departments and law enforcement agencies have been instructed to remain on high alert. Senior bureaucracy, police officials, and field formations have been specifically warned about the increasing incidents in which the WhatsApp accounts of serving government officers are being compromised.

Officials stated that in recent days, multiple cases have emerged where cyber criminals gained unauthorised access to official WhatsApp accounts and used them to send fraudulent messages to colleagues and subordinate staff. These messages typically involved urgent requests for financial assistance, designed to mislead recipients into transferring money.

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The advisory highlighted that such cyber fraud incidents are increasing at a concerning rate. It noted that fraudsters are using publicly available information, including names, official designations, and profile photos, to create convincing digital identities of senior officials.

Authorities have cautioned all departments to remain vigilant and verify any unusual or financially sensitive communication, even if it appears to come from known senior officers. The purpose of the advisory is to prevent financial loss and protect official communication channels from exploitation.

The Home Department emphasised that cyber criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods, making it difficult to distinguish between genuine and fake messages without proper verification procedures.

Departments have been directed to strengthen internal cyber security awareness and ensure that all officials follow strict verification protocols before responding to any financial or emergency-related requests received through messaging platforms.

The advisory reflects growing concerns over digital security threats targeting government institutions and highlights the need for stronger cyber protection measures across public sector communication systems.