Cybercrime is one of the fastest-growing areas of criminal law in Pakistan. The primary legislation is the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 (PECA), which establishes a comprehensive framework of offences relating to computer systems, electronic data, online content, and digital fraud. With the rapid growth of internet use and digital commerce in Pakistan, both individuals and businesses face increasing exposure to cybercrime — whether as victims or as accused persons.
Report Cybercrime Immediately: Cybercrime evidence (digital data, logs, transaction records) is extremely time-sensitive and can be deleted or overwritten quickly. If you are a victim of cybercrime, contact the FIA Cybercrime Wing and consult a lawyer immediately to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Key Offences Under PECA 2016
- Unauthorized Access (Section 3) — Accessing a computer system without authorization. Up to 3 months imprisonment or Rs. 50,000 fine
- Unauthorized Copy/Transmission of Data (Section 4) — Copying or transmitting data without authorization. Up to 6 months imprisonment
- Cyberstalking (Section 24) — Repeatedly contacting or monitoring someone online causing fear. Up to 3 years imprisonment
- Electronic Fraud (Section 15) — Obtaining property/services through electronic deception. Up to 2 years imprisonment
- Online Defamation (Section 20) — Publishing false information online damaging reputation. Up to 3 years imprisonment
- Child Exploitation Material (Section 22) — Most serious PECA offence. Up to 7 years imprisonment
- Spoofing (Section 16) — Fraudulently impersonating another person online. Up to 3 years imprisonment
- Hate Speech Online (Section 11) — Publishing content inciting violence or hatred. Up to 7 years imprisonment
The FIA Cybercrime Wing
Cybercrime offences in Pakistan are investigated by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cybercrime Wing, which has offices in all major cities. The FIA has broad powers to seize digital devices, obtain data from service providers, and conduct cyber-forensic examinations. Cases are tried before Special Courts constituted under PECA 2016.
If You Are a Victim of Cybercrime
Preserve All Evidence
Take screenshots of all communications, transactions, profiles, or content. Do not delete anything. Note dates, times, and usernames. Preserve device logs if possible.
File Complaint with FIA
Report to the FIA Cybercrime Wing in person or online at cybercrime.gov.pk. Provide all preserved evidence. A formal FIR will be registered if the offence falls under PECA 2016.
Consult a Cybercrime Lawyer
Legal guidance ensures your complaint is properly framed, evidence is legally preserved, and you understand the investigation and prosecution process. We represent cybercrime victims throughout Pakistan.
Civil Remedies
In addition to criminal proceedings, civil suits for damages, injunctions, and takedown of harmful content are available and often pursued simultaneously.
Defence Against Cybercrime Accusations
Being accused of a PECA offence is extremely serious. If you receive any notice from the FIA Cybercrime Wing or are arrested in connection with a cybercrime allegation, you should: immediately contact a criminal defence lawyer before making any statement; not consent to device searches without legal advice; preserve records of your own online activities; and understand that digital evidence can be technically challenged on forensic grounds.
Corporate Cybersecurity Legal Framework
Businesses operating in Pakistan must comply with data protection requirements and have legal obligations when they suffer data breaches. We advise businesses on PECA compliance, privacy policies, employee monitoring legality, cyber incident response, and cybersecurity contract terms.