Misleading videos promoting fake cash reward schemes have started to do rounds in Pakistani social media and this has led to the issue of a warning being given by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) after the fake videos started gaining popularity in the country. The government has explained that these allegations are utterly unfounded and belong to a premeditated effort to mislead people and gather personal data that is very sensitive.
NADRA officials allege that fraudsters are using the name of the organization to deceive people with computerized national identity cards (CNICs) with false promises of money. The authority has also asked people to be cautious and not to give personal or financial information to unknown sources.
What Are NADRA Fake Cash Reward Claims?
The NADRA fake cash rewards claims are based on fraudulent videos and messages, which imply that some Pakistani citizens can win cash prizes. These assertions usually mention that CNIC holders having particular signatures become entitled to financial aid or bonuses.
NADRA has dismissed outright presence of such a program and highlighted that such videos are created to disinform the people and create the perception of people relying on government institutions.
Spread Through Social Media and Messaging Platforms
According to the reports by authorities, such bogus videos are being spread quickly on social media and messaging apps. Quite a number of them are filmed in regional languages especially Saraiki in order to appeal to the local societies and enhance more credibility among the audience.
With the help of common language and cultural appeal, scammers strive to make the non-true announcements seem true so that people can distribute the information without checking its validity.
Misuse of Former NADRA Chairman’s Name
Among the most alarming facts about the scam is that the name of one of the former NADRA chairman Usman Yousuf Mubin was abused. He is falsely announced as fraudsters who state that CNICs with his signature will be provided with special cash rewards.
NADRA has put forward a stern protest against this abuse and made it clear that the former chairman and the organization is not, in any way, related to this allegation. Authorities have emphasized that these tricks are only meant to create illusory confidence between the potential victims.
NADRA’s Official Clarification
In its official speech, NADRA emphasized that the videos circulated are completely fake and they should not believe or spread such information. The authority stressed that it does not declare financial prizes in the informal channels and unplanned video records in social media.
NADRA reminded the public that all legitimate announcements are made only through:
- The official NADRA website
- Verified NADRA social media accounts
- Press releases issued via credible news organizations
Any message promising cash rewards outside these official platforms should be considered suspicious.
Risks Associated with Fake Reward Schemes
Being a victim of such scams might have severe repercussions such as identity theft and financial fraud. A victim can be requested to give out CNIC numbers, cell phone details, bank details or even pay some money as a processing fee in order to receive the alleged reward.
After the scammers have the personal information, they may abuse it to do unauthorized dealings or other fraudulent operations.
Common Tactics Used by Scammers
Authorities have identified several common strategies used in these fake reward campaigns:
- Creating urgency by claiming limited-time offers
- Using official-looking logos and videos
- Promising guaranteed cash prizes
- Requesting confidential personal or financial details
- Asking for small upfront fees to release payments
These tactics are designed to pressure individuals into making quick decisions without verifying the authenticity of the claims.
Public Safety Advice
NADRA and cybersecurity experts advise citizens to follow simple safety measures:
- Never share CNIC, banking details, or OTP codes with unknown sources
- Verify any government-related announcement through official channels
- Avoid clicking suspicious links or downloading unknown files
- Do not send money to claim prizes or rewards
- Report fake videos and suspicious messages immediately
The warning issued by NADRA demonstrates the increasing risk of online fraud on Pakistani nationals by using fake reward programs. Through awareness creation and prudent use of the internet, the government anticipates to avoid financial losses and identity theft. The citizens are encouraged to use official NADRA platforms to get the right information and be cautious of misleading information passing through the social media.
