National Database & Registration Authority (NADRA) is implementing new measures to combat the illegal issuance of CNICs and cybersecurity issues at centres.
NADRA has recognized the various factors contributing to the issuance of fake ID cards, both external and internal.
External factors include unreliable supporting documents, issues with the verification mechanism, issues with attestation, and legal loopholes, which occasionally result in the issuance of illegal CNICs.
Internal factors, such as the involvement of a few employees in malpractices for financial gain, also exacerbate the problem.
Taking action
NADRA has taken significant steps to tackle this challenge head-on. Through monitoring and corrective measures, more than 18,000 illegal CNICs were identified and promptly cancelled.
The authority is working diligently to rectify the situation by improving coordination with other stakeholders and implementing strict internal scrutiny.
New measures for CNIC issuances
In an effort to enhance security and prevent further illegal issuances, NADRA has introduced several new measures. These measures are aimed at making the verification process more foolproof and transparent:
1. Biometric verification of parents, blood relatives
NADRA has now implemented biometric verification for parents and blood relatives during the processing of ID card applications. This step ensures that the identities of the individuals involved are thoroughly checked and validated.
2. SMS notifications to the head of the family
Once an application is processed, the head of the family will receive an SMS notification. This notification serves as an additional layer of security to ensure that the application is legitimate and authorized by the family.
3. Two-factor authentication for data access
To prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information, NADRA has introduced two-factor authentication. This added layer of security ensures that only authorized personnel can access the data.
4. Improved internal oversight
NADRA has strengthened its internal oversight mechanisms to better monitor and control the issuance of ID cards. This increased scrutiny has led to the proactive identification and prevention of malicious attempts to obtain illegal CNICs.
Actions against violators
The authority takes violations of its policies and regulations seriously. Disciplinary actions have been taken against both violators and facilitators involved in the illegal issuance of ID cards.
The departmental accountability and inquiry processes have been streamlined to ensure swift and efficient actions against those found guilty.
Currently, 30% of internal inquiries have been concluded, resulting in the termination and imposition of major penalties on defaulters.
Additionally, a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) has been constituted to investigate any instances of illegal CNIC issuance and other related documents.
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