ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has dismissed social media claims alleging a breach of its systems and the sale of citizen data on the dark web, including CNIC numbers, photographs, and biometric information.
In an official clarification, NADRA stated that the circulating posts are “false and unfounded,” adding that the claims themselves acknowledge a lack of verification.
The authority noted that similar allegations had surfaced in 2024 as well. On both occasions, NADRA said it conducted detailed technical investigations in coordination with the National Computer Emergency Response Team (NCERT) and the National Telecommunications and Information Security Board (NTISB).
According to NADRA, no evidence of any breach, unauthorized access, or compromise of citizen data was found during these investigations.
The authority further stated that the sample images being circulated online are inconsistent with the format used in NADRA’s official data systems and have previously appeared on multiple platforms in earlier instances.
Addressing key claims circulating online, NADRA denies that there have been any incidents of data breaches, and hence there have been no instances of any stolen data by any citizen either.
Despite the denial of these claims, NADRA stated that it is monitoring this information with regard to the relevant cybersecurity authorities of the country.
Want to Change Your CNIC Address? NADRA Explains the Easy Process
Earlier, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has outlined a simplified procedure for citizens seeking to update the address on their Computerised National Identity Card (CNIC), including those living in rented accommodation.
The authority issued a video to guide the people regarding the documentation needed for changing the address on the CNICs temporarily as well as permanently.
As per the instructions, individuals who want to change their temporary address should produce a copy of their rent agreement along with a copy of the latest electricity bill from their rented address.
People looking forward to registering their rented address as their permanent address need to submit another document besides the rent agreement and the electricity bill; they need to submit an affidavit signed by the owner of the property stating that the property has been rented by them and he/she does not object to his/her address becoming the permanent address of the applicant.
However, people whose residence is their own property will have to submit the original ownership papers of their property at any NADRA office.
NADRA urged citizens to ensure they carry the required documents before visiting a registration centre to avoid delays in processing their applications.
