Accounts & identity
“PTA: your SIM will be blocked” calls
Robocall or caller posing as an officialYour SIM biometric verification is incomplete and will be blocked in 2 hours. Press 1 or share the code to re-verify.
Read more Accounts & identity
WhatsApp “code sent by mistake”
A scam that is spreading in Pakistan. See a real example, learn the red flags and exactly what to do — and how to report it if you have already been affected.
What the message looks like
A real example
WhatsApp · often a friend’s hacked accountSorry, I sent a 6-digit code to your number by mistake. Please send it to me, urgent.
How it works
They are registering YOUR number on their phone. The code is yours. Once shared, they take over your WhatsApp and ask your contacts for money.
Red flags
- Anyone asking for a WhatsApp code
- Urgency and emojis like 🙏
- Friend writes in an unusual way
What to do
- Never forward the code
- Turn on two-step verification (Settings → Account)
- Hijacked? Re-register WhatsApp with your number and warn contacts
FAQ
Questions people ask
Is the “WhatsApp code sent by mistake” message real?
Treat it as a scam. No real bank, wallet, government programme or company will ever ask for your OTP, PIN or password, or charge a fee to release a prize or aid. If in doubt, contact the organisation yourself on its official number.
Where do I report this scam in Pakistan?
Report cybercrime to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) on helpline 1799. Report the number to PTA, and if money was lost call your bank or wallet’s official helpline immediately so they can try to block the transfer.
I already shared a code or sent money — what now?
Call your bank or wallet at once to block the account, change your passwords and PIN, keep screenshots and transaction IDs, and file a complaint with NCCIA (1799). The faster you act, the better the chance of stopping the money.
Related scams
Also watch out for
Accounts & identity
Malicious .apk files (wedding card, bill, challan)
WhatsApp file from a contact📄 E-Challan_Notice.apk — “Your vehicle challan is pending, open to see the fine.”
Read more Money & banking Trending
Fake BISP / government grant messages
SMS · 8XXX / unknown numberCongratulations! Your Rs 25,000 BISP payment is approved. To receive, send your CNIC and the code you get to this number.
Read more Already affected?
Report it right away
Report cybercrime to the official agency, NCCIA. Our step-by-step guide shows what evidence to keep and how to file.