ICCI, NCCIA agree to strengthen cooperation against cybercrimes

            ISLAMABAD, Oct 11 (DNA):The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) have agreed to strengthen institutional cooperation to address cybercrime-related challenges faced by the business community, enhance digital security awareness, and facilitate timely resolution of traders’ complaints.

The understanding was reached during a meeting between Muhammad Shoaib Khan, Additional Director, NCCIA, and ICCI President Mohammad Zikria Akbar Zia, Senior Vice President Mohammad Ashfaq Hussain Chatha, and Vice President Mohammad Waqas Khan, said a press release  issued by the  ICCI  here on Sunday.

The NCCIA official took cognizance of the concerns of the business community regarding cybercrime-related issues and assured full cooperation to help address these challenges.

 It was also decided to establish a joint core committee comprising representatives of both organizations to ensure close coordination, effective liaison, and a coordinated response to issues concerning the business community.

The two sides also agreed to organize awareness sessions to educate businesspeople about cyber threats, digital security, and preventive measures.

Speaking on the occasion, ICCI President Mohammad Zikria Akbar Zia emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between the Chamber and the NCCIA to protect the business community from growing cyber threats.

 He said that as businesses increasingly rely on digital platforms for communication, transactions, and commercial activities, addressing cybercrime has become essential for building confidence in the digital economy.

He announced that ICCI would establish a dedicated Cyber Crimes Committee, similar to its other specialized committees, to identify business-related concerns, maintain effective coordination with the NCCIA, and pursue practical solutions for affected members.

ICCI Senior Vice President Mohammad Ashfaq Hussain Chatha and Vice President Mohammad Waqas Khan also shared their views on cybercrime-related challenges confronting businesses and reaffirmed the Chamber’s full cooperation with the NCCIA.

They stressed that regular engagement between the two institutions, coupled with greater awareness among traders and entrepreneurs, would help prevent cyber incidents and strengthen the business community’s ability to respond to emerging digital risks.

ICCI Executive Member Abrar ul Haq apprised the Additional Director NCCIA of specific concerns faced by the Islamabad Computer Association, Islamabad Mobile Association, and Islamabad Realtors Association.

He highlighted the importance of addressing sector-specific issues through an effective coordination mechanism so that businesses could operate with greater confidence and security in an increasingly digital environment.