The National Cyber Emergency Response Team (National CERT) and the National Telecommunication Corporation (NTC) have urged Pakistanis to protect their parents and grandparents from phone fraud and online scams.

The warning is part of Cyber Month 2026, a campaign aimed at raising awareness about digital safety and preventing people from losing money to scammers.

The two organizations highlighted several common scams, including fake bank calls, claims that a relative urgently needs money, bogus lottery prizes and callers pretending to be government officials or technical support staff.

Scammers often create panic or pressure people to act quickly so they reveal confidential information or transfer money.

National CERT and NTC reminded the public that banks do not ask customers to share one-time passwords (OTPs), personal identification numbers (PINs) or account passwords over the phone.

Anyone receiving a suspicious call claiming their bank account has been blocked or compromised should end the call and contact the bank through its official helpline.

The organizations also advised people to verify requests for emergency financial assistance by contacting the family member directly. People should avoid paying fees to claim prizes in lotteries or competitions they never entered.

Callers claiming to represent government departments or technical support services should also be verified through official channels before anyone shares information or follows their instructions.

The campaign recommends three simple steps to avoid phone fraud: pause before reacting, hang up on suspicious callers and verify claims using trusted contact numbers.

People have also been encouraged to report suspicious calls to the relevant authorities.

Under the Cyber Month 2026 theme, “Stay Aware, Stay Secure,” National CERT and NTC stressed that educating family members and following safe digital practices can help protect people from fraud and make Pakistan’s digital environment safer.