As tensions with India rise, the government issues a warning about the potential of cyberattacks.
The National Computer Emergency Response Team (National CERT) has issued a high-priority advisory warning of an increasing danger of cyberattacks against Pakistan’s government institutions and key infrastructure amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan.
The advice states that hackers may conduct sophisticated assaults by taking advantage of the geopolitical unrest that is now occurring in South and Central Asia. Government agencies, military sites, financial institutions, and media outlets are possible targets.
The warning emphasizes how attackers can use techniques like malware infections, spear-phishing tactics, and deepfakes to compromise systems, steal private data, and interfere with necessary services.
“The possibility of strategic infrastructure services being disrupted and an increase in data theft and financial losses is significant,” the advisories stated.
The National CERT stressed that cyber readiness and vigilance are now essential in all sectors due to the increasing geopolitical tensions. In order to reduce potential risks, institutions have been given urgent instructions to improve cybersecurity procedures, perform quick security assessments of their systems, and update security and antivirus software.
Successful cyberattacks might cause political instability and damage public confidence in important institutions, the National CERT director general cautioned. National security and cybersecurity are now closely related. To safeguard Pakistan’s national interests, immediate and calculated action is required,” the DG emphasized.
The report indicated increased dangers for Pakistan’s banking and financial institutions in addition to focusing on vital industries, warning that cybercriminals would try to take advantage of weaknesses to inflict large financial losses.
Additionally, the public has been advised to maintain stringent cyber hygiene, be wary of phishing efforts, and make sure that all digital platforms are adequately secured.
