Anyone using the name, logo or emblem of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) without permission could face up to three years in prison, a fine, or both, the authority has warned.
In a public notice, NADRA said its name, abbreviation, logo, emblem, trademark and other related material are legally protected intellectual property.
What NADRA Has Banned
NADRA said individuals and organisations cannot use, copy or claim ownership of its name, logo, trademarks or other official symbols without written permission.
The restriction applies to all forms of communication, including print, electronic, digital and social media platforms.
According to the authority, unauthorised use of its identity can lead to legal action under Sections 482 to 486 of the Pakistan Penal Code 1860 and the Trade Marks Ordinance 2001.
Depending on the offence, violators can face imprisonment of up to three years, a fine, or both.
Separate Penalties for Trademark Violations
NADRA has also highlighted punishments for specific violations:
- Using a false trademark can result in up to one year in prison.
- Counterfeiting a trademark can lead to up to two years in prison.
- False marking can carry a prison sentence of up to six months.
Warning Against Fake Social Media Pages
The authority said Facebook pages and other social media accounts using NADRA’s name or similar identities without approval are also illegal.
It is pursuing legal action against such accounts and taking steps to have them removed from social media platforms.
NADRA has advised people to verify the identity of anyone claiming to represent the authority before sharing information, making payments or conducting transactions. It has also urged citizens to rely only on its official social media accounts for updates.
The latest warning follows previous alerts about fake websites operating under NADRA’s name and fraudulent agents targeting overseas Pakistanis.
