The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has registered two separate cases against 206 suspects, including 12 foreign nationals, following raids on call centers in Islamabad allegedly linked to organized online fraud.

According to case details, the suspected network used online dating applications as an entry point to approach potential victims, build regular communication, and gradually gain their trust before steering them towards online tasks and purported investment opportunities.

Investigators allege that victims were encouraged to deposit money through online platforms after being promised financial returns.

The cases indicate that the alleged operation was not limited to one form of fraud. The call centers were also suspected of conducting deceptive activities in the name of loan recovery, online trading, and investment while operating under the appearance of legitimate information technology businesses.

Dating Apps Used as Gateway to Broader Online Fraud

One of the raided call centers was operating in Sector G-10, Islamabad, according to the case record.

Authorities allege that the facility was being used for unlawful cyber activities while presenting itself as an IT business. A large number of women were also found among those allegedly working at the premises.

The alleged fraud model relied on prolonged communication rather than one-off messages. Suspects would first establish contact with victims, maintain conversations, and build confidence before introducing financial tasks or investment offers.

Investigators believe this approach was designed to make the schemes appear credible and increase the likelihood that victims would transfer funds.

During the raids, NCCIA officials seized computers, electronic equipment, and other digital material allegedly connected with the operations.

The suspects have been booked under Section 14 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016, along with Sections 419, 420, 34, and 109 of the Pakistan Penal Code.

The investigation is continuing, with authorities expected to examine the seized digital material to establish the scale of the operation, financial flows, and the roles of individual suspects.

The latest cases highlight the growing use of social and dating platforms as a starting point for more elaborate financial scams, where personal interaction is allegedly used to build trust before victims are directed towards fraudulent investment or money-transfer schemes.