Passport Application Scam in Pakistan – DGIP Issues an Official Public Warning
Passport Application Scam in Pakistan
A major scam has recently been exposed in Pakistan involving fake passport applications, and the DGIP has issued a strong warning to the public. Scammers are taking advantage of digital platforms — mainly through a fake Google Maps listing for the Regional Passport Office in Islamabad’s G-10 sector — to deceive applicants into paying bogus “fees.” This article explains how the scam works, how to identify it, how to stay safe, and what actions to take if you become a target. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of the situation and know exactly how to protect yourself.
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Quick Summary Table for Passport Application Scam in Pakistan
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Name of Programme / Issue | Passport Application Scam in Pakistan |
| Start Date | Reported early November 2025 |
| End Date | Ongoing – no fixed end date yet |
| Method of Assistance / Action | Awareness and public warning issued by DGIP |
| Method of Application | Official application through DGIP website or regional passport offices (online + offline) |
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How the Passport Application Scam Works
Fake Listing on Google Maps
The DGIP discovered that fraudsters had created or altered a Google Maps listing for the Regional Passport Office, Islamabad (G-10 sector), displaying fake phone numbers and email addresses to mislead people.
Contact via Personal Channels
Once applicants reach out, these scammers continue communication through personal contact details and request money or sensitive information using:
- Personal mobile phone numbers
- Private bank accounts (via bank transfers) or mobile wallets like JazzCash and Easypaisa
Pretending to Be Official
They falsely claim to offer “VIP processing,” “early appointments,” or “fast-track services,” but DGIP has confirmed that no individual or private agent is authorised to collect passport fees through personal means.
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What Victims Lose
People who get trapped in this scam often face:
- Financial loss due to payments made to scammers
- Compromised identity after sharing CNIC, passport data, or home address
- Risk of identity theft and possible misuse of personal details in the future
DGIP’s Official Warning to Citizens
The DGIP has officially cautioned citizens regarding the Passport Application Scam in Pakistan, stating:
“Be vigilant: Never share personal details or send money to unauthorised individuals.”
They urge citizens to:
- Only rely on the official DGIP website: www.dgip.gov.pk
- Use the official helpline: 051-111-344-777
- Follow verified handles like @dgipofficial for legitimate updates
Any request for payment outside official channels — whether through private accounts or mobile wallets — must be treated as a fraud attempt.
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Why Passport Scams Are Increasing in Pakistan
High Demand for Travel Documents
The demand for passports has sharply risen due to:
- Job opportunities abroad
- Student visas and higher education overseas
- Travel and family visits
This growing need has provided fraudsters an easy opportunity to exploit unsuspecting applicants.
Digital Platforms & Weak Verification
Scammers misuse weak verification systems on digital platforms like Google Maps by adding fake contact info, taking advantage of people who don’t double-check sources.
Shortcut Mentality
Many applicants are tempted by the promise of quicker processing. These scammers exploit that desire by offering “shortcuts” that lead to losses or delays instead of results.
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How to Avoid the Passport Application Scam
- Verify All Contact Details
Always check the official DGIP website before contacting anyone or sending payments. Only trust information on .gov.pk domains. - Do Not Send Payments to Personal Accounts
All passport fees must be paid through official government banks, counters, or online portals. Payments made to personal accounts or mobile wallet numbers are not authorised. - Never Share Private Information with Strangers
Keep your CNIC, passport details, and home address private. Do not share such data with anyone unless you have confirmed they are official DGIP representatives. - Confirm Google Maps Listings Before Trusting Them
Always verify passport office listings on Google Maps. If a listing shows private contact numbers or non-official emails, it may be fake. The DGIP specifically highlighted a fraudulent listing in Islamabad’s G-10 sector.
What to Do If You Encounter a Fake Passport Agent
If you suspect a scammer:
- Stop all contact with that person or agency immediately.
- Gather evidence: screenshots, payment receipts, bank account info, or message history.
- Report it to DGIP: via the official helpline (051-111-344-777) or the official complaint email.
- If your personal data is stolen or misused, you can also report to the FIA Cyber Crime Wing.
Public reporting helps the authorities identify and shut down these fraudulent networks.
Safe Ways to Apply for a Passport in Pakistan
Apply Directly at a Passport Office
Visiting the nearest regional passport office remains the safest approach. Bring:
- Your original CNIC / NICOP (for overseas Pakistanis)
- Two recent photographs (as per official specifications)
- Fee receipt from the authorised payment counter
- Appointment (if required), booked through the official DGIP website
Use DGIP’s Official Online Services
DGIP also provides an online application system for form submission, fee payment (through authorised banks), and appointment scheduling.
Always ensure you are on the official .gov.pk domain, not a fake website.
Any platform or person offering “faster service” without DGIP authorisation should be treated with suspicion.
DGIP’s Continued Efforts to Protect the Public
The DGIP is taking proactive steps to combat the Passport Application Scam in Pakistan, including:
- Improving verification systems for online listings like Google Maps
- Expanding public awareness through official media and warnings
- Enhancing cybersecurity to identify and block fraudsters faster
- Appreciating citizens who report suspicious activity to assist investigations
Conclusion
The passport application scam is a clear reminder that fraudsters exploit any available gap in the digital world. Protect yourself by following simple rules: verify contact details, avoid personal payments, secure your information, and use only official DGIP channels.
Always trust the DGIP website, helpline, and verified social media handles.
Promises of “VIP” or “fast approval” services are usually traps. Stay alert, stay safe — and apply for your passport only through authorised means to avoid financial loss or identity theft.
