Senate IT Committee Seeks Report on Fraudulent Call Centers, Cyber Scam Measures

The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication has summoned the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) to present a detailed report on the operations of call centers and software houses across the country. The committee is set to review information regarding the total number of such entities, revenue generation, current registration status, and existing monitoring mechanisms. The upcoming meeting, scheduled for July 31, 2025, will also focus on actions taken against fraudulent call centers and cyber criminals involved in scamming citizens. The committee has demanded clarity on the steps being taken to prevent future scams and enhance cyber safety for users. This move follows increasing incidents of cyber fraud, including deceptive overseas calls and digital scams that target unsuspecting victims. The Chairman PTA is expected to brief the committee on the latest Quality of Services (QoS) survey conducted across cellular mobile operators. The briefing will evaluate the performance of telecom operators on key indicators like voice quality and data latency. The committee aims to ensure compliance with license obligations and assess efforts to address deteriorating service standards reported by consumers. The meeting will also include a presentation by the Ministry of IT and Telecom (MoITT) on the National Artificial Intelligence Development Project. The discussion will cover criteria for financing AI projects, the role of the National AI Fund, and the establishment of centers of excellence to enhance Pakistan’s AI capabilities. Mapping the country’s existing AI infrastructure will also be part of the agenda. Another critical agenda item is the briefing on Pakistan’s first indigenous Large Language Model (LLM), aimed at integrating AI solutions across ministries and public departments. The Senate committee will evaluate the progress and implementation strategy to ensure that the LLM supports national digital transformation and boosts technological innovation.