Amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, the National Computer Emergency Response Team (National CERT) has issued a high-priority advisory warning of an increased risk of cyberattacks targeting Pakistan's critical infrastructure and government institutions.
According to the advisory, hackers could exploit the current geopolitical instability in South Asia and Central Asia to launch sophisticated cyberattacks. Potential targets include government departments, defence installations, financial institutions, and media organizations.
The advisory highlights that attackers may deploy methods such as spear-phishing campaigns, malware infections, and the use of deepfakes to breach systems, steal sensitive and confidential information, and disrupt essential services.
"The possibility of strategic infrastructure services being disrupted and an increase in data theft and financial losses is significant," the advisory noted.
The National CERT emphasized that in the face of mounting geopolitical pressures, cyber vigilance and preparedness are now critical across all sectors. Institutions have been urgently directed to strengthen cybersecurity protocols, conduct immediate security audits of their systems, and update antivirus and security software to mitigate potential threats.
The director general of the National CERT warned that successful cyberattacks could result in political instability and erode public trust in key institutions. "Cybersecurity is now directly linked to national security. Urgent, strategic measures must be taken to protect Pakistan's national interests," the DG stressed.
In addition to targeting strategic sectors, the advisory flagged heightened risks for Pakistan’s banking and financial systems, cautioning that cybercriminals may seek to exploit vulnerabilities to cause significant financial damage.
The public has also been urged to practice strict cyber hygiene, remain cautious about phishing attempts, and ensure that all digital platforms are properly secured.
