Online Harassment & Blackmailing in Pakistan: The Reality Behind Cyber Crimes and How to Protect Yourself
By Gull Hassan Khan Advocate
CEO, Pak-Lawyer Associates
In recent years, cyber blackmail has become one of the fastest-growing crimes in Pakistan. As a lawyer practicing in Pakistan for over 17 years, I have represented numerous victims—particularly women and overseas Pakistanis—who became targets of online harassment, fake threats, identity theft, and extortion.
One disturbing reality is that many victims are not actually blackmailed with genuine photographs or videos. Instead, they are psychologically manipulated into believing the blackmailer knows everything about them.
Sadly, many victims remain silent due to fear, social pressure, and the concern that their family may find out. This silence often encourages criminals to continue targeting others.
The Two Most Common Methods Used by Cyber Blackmailers
1. Fake Pretence and Psychological Blackmail (The Most Common Method)
From our firm’s experience, many cyber blackmail cases begin with nothing more than a mobile phone number.
The blackmailer somehow obtains:
- Your mobile number
- Your name
- Your city
- Sometimes your address
- Your social media accounts
They then send frightening messages such as:
“We have your videos.”
“We know where you live.”
“We’ll come to your house.”
“We’ll tell your father, husband, brother or family that you are chatting with boys.”
“We’ll expose your relationship.”
In many cases, the blackmailer possesses no private videos or photographs at all.
Their weapon is fear, not evidence.
From our practical legal experience, many victims—particularly young women—become frightened simply because the blackmailer mentions their locality or family. The victim starts believing the criminal has access to private information, when in reality the criminal is relying on intimidation and guesswork.
Once the victim responds in fear, the blackmailer realizes that the pressure is working and continues demanding money or further cooperation.
2. Genuine Data Theft
Some blackmail cases involve actual theft of personal data.
This may happen through:
- Mobile phone repair shops
- Lost or stolen mobile phones
- Selling old phones without securely wiping data
- Cloud backup misuse
- Former friends or partners
- Former spouses
- Someone who previously had access to your device
- Data copied during phone servicing
Unfortunately, even deleted photographs and videos can sometimes be recovered using specialised forensic software if the device has not been securely erased.
Why Do Victims Keep Paying?
Most victims are not afraid of the criminal.
They are afraid of:
- Their parents finding out.
- Damage to their reputation.
- Family honour.
- Social judgment.
- Community gossip.
Cyber criminals understand this fear and exploit it.
The moment a victim sends money once, the blackmailer usually demands more.
Paying almost never ends the harassment.
Girls Should Be Brave
One message I always give to victims is:
Do not suffer in silence.
If someone threatens you online:
- Tell your parents.
- Tell a trusted family member.
- Tell a close friend.
- Contact an experienced cyber crime lawyer immediately.
Remember:
A blackmailer is a criminal—not someone who controls your life.
Once legal action begins, many blackmailers disappear because they know the legal consequences can be severe.
In Pakistan, cyber criminals can face investigation and prosecution under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (PECA) and other applicable criminal laws. In Punjab, specialised police units, including Cyber Crime Wing and the Crime Control Department (CCD) where appropriate, may also become involved depending on the nature of the offence and the investigation.
Practical Safety Tips
Never ignore these precautions:
✔ Never leave your mobile phone unattended at a repair shop.
Always remain present while your phone is being repaired whenever possible.
✔ Never sell your mobile phone without securely erasing all data.
Simply deleting photographs or performing a basic reset may not permanently remove your data.
✔ Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).
✔ Use strong passwords.
✔ Never share OTPs or verification codes.
✔ Regularly review your privacy settings on social media.
✔ Avoid sharing intimate photographs online, even with someone you trust.
If You Receive a Threat
Immediately:
- Take screenshots.
- Save voice messages.
- Save WhatsApp chats.
- Preserve call recordings.
- Note dates and times.
- Do not delete the conversation.
- Do not send money.
- Do not continue negotiating with the blackmailer.
Digital evidence is often the strongest evidence.
Challenges in Reporting Cyber Crime
Victims can report cyber offences to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) through its complaint mechanisms.
However, based on our firm’s practical experience, many complainants express frustration that online complaints may not always receive prompt follow-up without persistent engagement. In some cases, victims report that progress is made only after repeated follow-up, submission of complete evidence, or legal representation.
Cyber crime investigations are technically complex, and delays can discourage victims from reporting offences.
Need for Stronger Government Action
Cyber blackmail has become a serious social issue in Pakistan.
Many victims—especially young women—never report these crimes because of fear and social stigma. Tragically, media reports have shown that some victims experience severe psychological distress, and in some cases cyber harassment has been linked to suicides.
Greater public awareness, faster investigations, and victim support are essential.
The Government of Pakistan should continue strengthening the capacity of the NCCIA by improving complaint handling, increasing investigation resources, and ensuring timely responses to victims.
Similarly, the Punjab Government has established specialised cyber crime capabilities within the police. Greater public awareness campaigns would help citizens understand where to seek assistance and encourage victims to report offences without fear.
A Message to Every Victim
If someone says:
“I’ll tell your father.”
“I’ll come to your house.”
“I’ll leak your videos.”
Remember:
Fear is their biggest weapon.
Do not allow a criminal to control your life.
Speak to someone you trust.
Seek legal advice immediately.
Report the matter.
The law is on your side.
Final Message
Cyber criminals thrive because victims remain silent.
Your courage can protect not only yourself but also countless others who may otherwise become their next target.
If this article helps you understand cyber blackmail, share it with your family, friends, daughters, sisters, colleagues, and students. One share may help someone recognise a scam before it is too late.
Awareness is the first step toward prevention, and timely legal action is often the strongest defence against cyber crime.
FAQ :
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Online Harassment & Cyber Blackmail in Pakistan
1. What should I do if someone is threatening to leak my photos or videos?
Do not panic and never pay money. Preserve all evidence, including screenshots, chats, voice messages, call logs, and phone numbers. Immediately report the matter to the NCCIA and seek legal advice.
2. The blackmailer only knows my mobile number and address. Can they really have my videos?
Not necessarily. In many cases, blackmailers use fear and psychological pressure. They obtain basic information such as your mobile number, address, or social media profile and pretend to have compromising material. Do not assume their claims are true.
3. Should I pay the blackmailer to stop the threats?
No. Paying money usually encourages the blackmailer to demand even more. Once they know you are frightened, they often continue the extortion.
4. Can deleted photos and videos be recovered from a mobile phone?
Yes. In some cases, deleted data can be recovered using forensic software if the device has not been securely erased. This is why you should be cautious before selling or disposing of your mobile phone.
5. Can mobile repair shops steal my personal data?
Unfortunately, yes. If your phone is left unattended during repairs, someone may copy your personal data. Always stay present while your device is being repaired and choose only reputable service centres.
6. My ex-boyfriend or ex-girlfriend is blackmailing me. Is this a cyber crime?
Yes. Using private photos, videos, messages, or fake accounts to threaten or extort someone is a serious offence under Pakistan’s cyber crime laws and may also constitute offences under the Pakistan Penal Code.
7. Someone created a fake Facebook or Instagram account using my pictures. What should I do?
Report the fake account to the relevant social media platform, preserve screenshots, and file a complaint with the NCCIA. You may also seek legal assistance to protect your rights.
8. I am an overseas Pakistani. Can I report cyber blackmail in Pakistan?
Yes. Overseas Pakistanis who are targeted by individuals in Pakistan or whose case falls within Pakistani jurisdiction may report the matter and seek legal representation in Pakistan.
9. What evidence should I preserve?
Keep:
- Screenshots of chats
- WhatsApp conversations
- Voice messages
- Call recordings
- Emails
- Social media profile links
- Phone numbers
- Bank transaction details (if any payment was made)
Never delete the original conversation until advised by your lawyer or investigating agency.
10. Will the blackmailer really come to my house and tell my family?
In many cases, these are intimidation tactics designed to create fear. Every case is different, but victims should not panic. Instead, immediately inform a trusted family member and seek legal advice.
11. Can women report cyber harassment without informing everyone?
Yes. Victims can confidentially consult a lawyer and report the offence to the relevant authorities. Early legal advice often helps protect the victim’s privacy and interests.
12. What laws protect victims of cyber blackmail in Pakistan?
Victims are primarily protected under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (PECA). Depending on the facts, provisions of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) may also apply.
13. How can I protect myself from cyber blackmail?
- Never share intimate photos or videos online.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA).
- Use strong passwords.
- Never share OTPs.
- Keep your social media accounts private.
- Never leave your phone unattended during repairs.
- Securely erase all data before selling your mobile phone.
14. Can a lawyer help in cyber blackmail cases?
Yes. An experienced cyber crime lawyer can:
- Assess your case.
- Preserve digital evidence.
- Draft complaints.
- Represent you before the NCCIA and other authorities.
- Obtain appropriate legal remedies through the courts where necessary.
15. What should parents do if their daughter is being blackmailed online?
Parents should remain calm and supportive. Do not blame the victim. Immediately preserve evidence, seek legal advice, and report the matter to the authorities. Family support is often the most important factor in protecting victims from further harm.
16. Is cyber blackmail punishable in Pakistan?
Yes. Depending on the nature of the offence, cyber blackmail, online harassment, identity theft, unauthorized access to data, cyber stalking, and distribution of private images may result in imprisonment, fines, or both under Pakistani law.
17. Can I recover money already paid to a blackmailer?
Recovery depends on the facts of each case. If payments were made through traceable banking channels or digital wallets, legal and investigative action may assist in tracing the transactions. You should report the matter without delay.
18. Why do many victims not report cyber blackmail?
Many victims fear social stigma, damage to their reputation, or their family discovering the incident. Criminals exploit this fear. Seeking prompt legal advice and family support is often the safest course of action.
19. Can cyber criminals be traced if they use foreign WhatsApp numbers?
Yes, in many cases. Although foreign numbers can complicate investigations, law enforcement agencies can use digital evidence, IP logs, financial records, and mutual legal assistance mechanisms where available to identify offenders.
20. What is the most important advice for every victim?
Be brave. Don’t suffer in silence. Don’t pay. Preserve evidence. Tell someone you trust. Obtain legal advice immediately. Early action can prevent further harm and improve the chances of bringing the offender to justice.
