The dark side of digital fortress
Samra Munir Abbasi
A female student fell victim to a blackmailer using a fake Facebook
ID, posing as a friend. Trusting the fake profile, she engaged in
conversation, but within two days, he demanded explicit photos. When
she refused, he sent fake images and escalated pressure through
another account, even threatening to contact her father. Under duress,
she shared pictures but refused to meet. Seeking help, she confided in
a friend who advised her to report the case to Pakistan’s Federal
Investigation Agency (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing. Within 5–6 weeks, the
blackmailer, who had targeted multiple other victims through 6–7 fake
accounts, was arrested.
This case of a personal acquaintance highlights the importance
of cyber safety and promptly reporting online harassment. With the
widespread use of smartphones and social media, 24.4 per cent of users
in Pakistan are affected by cyberbullying.
Cyberbullying is the
harassment of people online via social media such as messaging apps,
emails, or forums. It is very complex, as bullies exploit anonymity,
making them difficult to identify. However, the harmful content they
share creates a digital footprint that can be replicated, causing
long-term damage.
Digital spaces, while necessary, are sometimes
used for derogatory and immoral activities. Hateful messages, false
rumours, or public shaming can easily imperil someone’s online
presence.
According to a survey conducted by Digital Rights
Foundations in 2019, 37 per cent of Pakistani women and 41 per cent of
Pakistani men reported experiencing online harassment.
The most
common cybercrimes reported by students to the FIA Cybercrime Wing
include electronic fraud, blackmailing, and child abuse. Online scams
like fake shopping, investment schemes, and job offers are often used
to target students. Many face blackmail and harassment due to personal
information or photos shared online, with criminals using AI-generated
or manipulated images for extortion. Minors, especially students, are
vulnerable to predators, and fear of telling parents often worsens the
exploitation.
Cyberbullying can happen anywhere, anytime, and to
anyone. A student from Karachi, who preferred not to be named,
described her experience to me: “I was bullied on social media and my
photos were edited and shared with others. I was so embarrassed that I
didn’t go to school or have the courage to ask for help.”
Reports are often delayed due to a lack of knowledge. According
to Najeeb ul Hassan, a cybercrime analyst at FIA, “Many people fear
embarrassment or retaliation, which can lead to more serious outcomes.
Students need to know that they can report online bullying anonymously
and seek help. Raising awareness is the key to solving this growing
problem."
Despite laws like the Prevention of Electronic Crimes
Act of 2016, enforcement is inconsistent and many people are still
unaware of their rights. Lack of supervision and regulation on social
platforms makes it easy for negative content to spread like wildfire.
Parents often lack the skills to guide their children about online
safety, particularly in rural areas.
Najeeb ul Hassan
says,
“The anonymity of the internet makes it easier for cyber bullies to
operate, but the consequences are devastating. We need to focus on
prevention and empowerment."
No problem is unsolvable. Students should recognize red flags
like hate speech, threats, manipulation, or scams to prevent
escalation. Setting digital boundaries is essential. To avoid
cyberbullying, be cautious online, avoid oversharing, engaging with
strangers, or storing sensitive data carelessly. Report and block
cyberbullies, and seek help if unsafe. Parents must monitor online
activity, educate on privacy, and foster open discussions. Schools
should enforce anti-cyberbullying policies, teach responsible
behaviour, and support victims with counselling. Remember, you are not
alone. By speaking up and asking for help, you are not only standing
up for yourself but also for countless others who are facing similar
challenges. Together, we can make the digital world a safe place where
all students can thrive without fear. Be strong, be vigilant and don’t
be afraid to ask for support.
4 ways to contact the FIA Cybercrime Wing:
Email: Send a complaint to
Helpdesk.cyber@fia.gov.pk
Post: Mail the complaint to CCW HQs, G-10/4,
Islamabad
Online Portal: Submit a complaint through
complaint.fia.gov.pk
In Person: Visit your nearest FIA Cybercrime
Reporting Centre (15 stations across Pakistan). Visiting in person is
the fastest way to get a remedy. Additionally, the aggrieved can
contact FIA's helpline at 051-111-345-786 for assistance.
Samra Munir Abbasi is enrolled in MS Data Science at the
International Islamic University Islamabad.