Bank of Punjab rules out cyberattack behind irregular credit card transactions

LAHORE: The Bank of Punjab (BOP) has clarified that certain irregular credit card transactions recently identified were the result of a temporary technical glitch in its credit card system and not due to any cyber attack.

In a statement released by the BoP, it reads that “During routine monitoring, the Bank identified certain irregular CreditCard transactions and immediately initiated an internal review.

The review established that the transactions arose due to a temporarytechnical glitch in the credit card system whichenabled a certain number of Banks ’existing customers to execute unauthorized transactions.”

The bank emphasized that the affected customers were not linked to any specific government scheme or program, including the Asaan Karobar Card, and that the issue impacted only a specific segment of its credit card holders.

BOP categorically rejected reports suggesting a cyber breach, stating that “the Bank would like to clarify that this technical issue was not the result of any cyber-attack, and the system gap identified has since been fullyrectified, and the system update on Friday/ 2nd January 2026, has nothing to do with this particular credit card issue either.”

The bank said recovery actions have been initiated in accordance with standard procedures, adding that most affected customers have already begun repaying the excess amounts.

Claims circulating in sections of the media regarding the size of the financial impact were described as exaggerated, speculative, and incorrect, with the situation remaining fully manageable for the bank.

The bank confirmed that all impacted customers have been contacted directly. Customers who have not been approached by the bank remain unaffected and have no cause for concern.

BOP also advised customers to remain vigilant against unauthorized or suspicious individuals and to engage only with verified bank officials after proper identification. For further information or clarification, customers can contact the BOP helpline at (+92-42-111-267-200).

The statement was issued in the broader public interest as part of the bank’s awareness campaign to educate customers about the risks of cyber fraud.