The increasing use of mobile applications and filters has raised concerns about the security of personal data, with much of it being exposed to the Dark Web. Iqrar-ul-Hassan, an anchor, has shed light on how these apps gain access to users’ personal information, including images, which can then be exploited maliciously.
Iqrar emphasized the importance of managing camera and gallery access, warning that the risk of data misuse is significantly reduced if users ensure no sensitive or objectionable content is stored on their devices. He cautioned that a major data breach involving personal material could happen at any time.
The journalist also addressed the growing threat of deepfake technology, which can manipulate everyday images from users’ phones into compromising videos. Alarmingly, Iqrar shared that 980 out of 1,000 daily assistance requests are related to mobile phone misuse, primarily involving videos used for blackmail. He noted that 98% of these cases involve women, though men are increasingly becoming victims of such schemes.
In addition to this, Iqrar discussed the dangers posed by loan apps, which have caused immense distress despite regulatory efforts by the State Bank of Pakistan. These apps often harass borrowers and their families, leading to tragic outcomes, including suicides. Furthermore, he highlighted the growing problem of identity card photocopy trading and the use of sophisticated tools, such as silicone pads, to replicate thumbprints for banking fraud, which is damaging the financial system.
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