ISLAMABAD: A recent viral message circulating on social media in Pakistan has sparked widespread concern, warning of imminent ATM closures and advising against online transactions. The message claims that viewing a video titled “Dance of the Hillary” could lead to data loss on mobile phones and attributes the warning to a supposed ransomware cyber-attack.
The message, which has been widely shared across various platforms, includes alarming statements about a ransomware attack affecting 74 countries and urges people to avoid any online transactions and not to open any email attachments with specific file names. It also warns that ATMs will be closed for 2-3 days due to the cyber-attack.
However, an investigation into the origins and accuracy of these claims reveals that such warnings are not new. A review of global incidents shows that similar warnings have been circulating since 2016, with many international media outlets debunking them as unfounded rumors. The content of the message mirrors earlier warnings, with minimal changes in wording and references, indicating that it is a recurring hoax.
The message, which attributes its source to BBC Radio, has made its way to Pakistan, echoing the same claims about a purported virus.
In response to the viral message, there has been no official confirmation or warning from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) or any private banking institutions regarding a ransomware attack or ATM closures. Banks across Pakistan have confirmed that their ATMs remain fully operational and that digital transactions are proceeding without interruption.
The message’s claim of a “massive ransomware attack” and its purported link to BBC Radio have been discredited. Fact-checking reveals that there is no credible evidence supporting the existence of such a virus or the imminent threat described in the viral alert.
The BBC has not reported any such incident, and there is no record of an official statement from them on this matter.
Despite the absence of a real threat, the spread of such messages underscores the ongoing issue of misinformation and cyber panic.
