The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) is making significant changes to improve its services. On January 17, NADRA Pak ID website will be shut down, and all services will now be available through a newly enhanced mobile app. This move comes after concerns about fraudulent websites and difficulties faced by citizens, especially overseas Pakistanis, in using the website.
Why NADRA is Shutting Down the Website
The decision to shut down the Pak ID website was made due to rising issues of fraudulent activities. Fraudsters have been using fake websites to create fake identification documents, which has compromised the security of citizens’ personal information. According to Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, these fake websites were helping criminals to steal sensitive data.
| Reason | Details |
|---|---|
| Fraudulent Websites | Fake websites created for identity theft |
| Personal Data Theft | Criminals stealing information via fake sites |
| Website Issues | Difficulty for citizens in using the website |
Improved Mobile App for Services
To address these problems, NADRA is launching an improved mobile app that will provide all the services that were previously available on the website. The new app will allow citizens to apply for National Identity Cards, NICOP, POC, B Forms, FRC, and more, directly from their phones. This is aimed at making the process easier and more secure.
| ServiceAvailable on WebsiteAvailable on Mobile App | ||
|---|---|---|
| National Identity Cards | Yes | Yes |
| NICOP | Yes | Yes |
| POC | Yes | Yes |
| FRC | Yes | Yes |
| B Forms | Yes | Yes |
Why This Change is Necessary for Overseas Pakistanis
The shift to the mobile app will also help overseas Pakistanis who had trouble using the website. One common issue was the scanning and uploading of documents like fingerprints. The new mobile app will simplify the process, making it easier for Pakistanis abroad to get their identification documents without facing technical challenges.
| Issue | Website | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|
| Document Upload | Difficult | Easy |
| Fingerprint Scanning | Problematic | Simplified |
| Overseas Access | Limited | Convenient |
New NADRA Regional Centres to Improve Access
Alongside the app, NADRA is also improving its physical infrastructure. Three new NADRA regional centres will open in Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Gwadar, and Gilgit-Baltistan by March 31. These centres will help citizens in remote areas access NADRA services easily. Additionally, 19 more NADRA offices are set to open across the country by the same date.
| Location | New Regional Centres |
|---|---|
| Azad Jammu & Kashmir | Yes |
| Gwadar | Yes |
| Gilgit-Baltistan | Yes |
| Remaining Tehsils | 19 new offices by March 31 |
Preventing Data Misuse and Ensuring Security
In recent reports, officials were accused of misusing NADRA verification system. Sensitive data from Verisys, the Criminal Record Office (CRO), and family tree records were allegedly sold to criminals and scammers. To combat this, NADRA is working with other agencies to tighten security and prevent further misuse of the system.
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Data Misuse | Sensitive data exploited for personal gain |
| System Integrity | Compromised by bribed officials |
| Action Taken | NADRA and agencies working on security |
24/7 Passport Services
In addition to the app and new regional centres, NADRA Mega Centres have introduced 24-hour passport counters at locations in Karachi, Islamabad, and other cities. This service ensures that citizens can apply for passports at any time, improving accessibility and convenience.
| City | 24-Hour Passport Service |
|---|---|
| Karachi | Yes |
| Islamabad | Yes |
| Nationwide | Expanding |
Summary
NADRA decision to shut down its website and launch a mobile app is a major step towards improving security, accessibility, and service delivery. The new mobile app will not only help citizens apply for documents more easily but also protect them from fraud. With the addition of new regional centres and expanded passport services, NADRA is taking significant measures to ensure its services reach citizens efficiently and securely.
