The government has issued a warning regarding Hostile Intelligence Agencies (HIAs) exploiting online matrimonial apps and sites for surveillance, data gathering, and targeting government and armed forces personnel.
The National Telecommunication and Information Security Board (NTISB) has urged individuals to refrain from using such platforms due to the potential risks, even with Google Play Store security measures in place.
One such app highlighted in the advisory is Rishta – Pakistani Matrimony, available on the Google Play Store, along with the website shaadi.org.pk. Technical analysis of the app reveals that it collects various user data and permissions, including location, storage access, and advertising ID, among others.
The website shaadi.org.pk also collects personal information and provides chat rooms and messaging services, which could pose privacy risks. It has been observed that HIAs have established accounts on these platforms to identify and target government and armed forces personnel.
To mitigate these risks, strict compliance with certain measures is recommended: Avoid using any online matrimonial apps or sites due to the potential for HIA surveillance. Individuals who have downloaded the Rishta – Pakistani Matrimony app and have encountered HIA approaches should report immediately to senior management or HR departments.
Consider treating the Rishta app as banned. These precautions are crucial to safeguarding personal and sensitive information from exploitation by hostile entities. Users are advised to remain vigilant and prioritize security measures to counter potential threats posed by online platforms.
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