Pakistan faces 400+ cyberattacks this year
Pakistan has faced more than 400 cyberattacks during the current year, with authorities successfully stopping all reported attacks in time, according to the Director General of the National Cyber Emergency Response Team, Dr Haider Abbas.
Dr Abbas said the growing number of cyber threats showed the need for stronger national cybersecurity measures. He called for the establishment of a powerful National Cyber Security Authority to coordinate cybersecurity efforts across the country.
Speaking in an interview, he said Pakistan was facing increasingly complex cyber threats. He also warned about the risks posed by cyberattacks allegedly backed by state actors.
According to Dr Abbas, Pakistan needs a central institution with sufficient authority to deal with the growing cybersecurity challenges. He proposed placing the National Cyber Security Authority under the prime minister.
He said a national authority working under the prime minister could respond more effectively to major cyber threats. It could also improve coordination between government institutions and other organisations responsible for digital security.
The official stressed that cybersecurity had become an important national issue. The increasing dependence on digital systems has also increased the potential risks to government institutions, businesses and other critical sectors.
More than 400 attacks reported this year highlight the scale of the challenge facing Pakistan. Although the attacks were reportedly prevented, officials believe the country needs stronger systems to detect and respond to future threats.
Dr Abbas said the proposed authority should oversee cybersecurity across the country. It should also ensure that different institutions follow effective security measures and remain prepared for emerging digital threats.
A central cybersecurity body could help improve coordination during cyber emergencies. It could also allow authorities to respond quickly when sensitive digital systems come under attack.
The official’s proposal comes as cyber threats continue to become more sophisticated worldwide. Governments are increasingly focusing on protecting critical infrastructure, public institutions and digital networks from cyberattacks.
Pakistan has also expanded its dependence on online systems in government, banking, communications and other sectors. Any major cyberattack on important infrastructure could potentially disrupt essential services.
Dr Abbas therefore called for a stronger national framework to protect Pakistan’s digital environment. He said the proposed authority should have a clear mandate and sufficient powers to manage cybersecurity across the country.
He also emphasised the importance of a coordinated national response. Different government departments and institutions need to work together to identify threats and prevent attacks before they cause damage.
The official said placing the authority under the prime minister would give it greater effectiveness and allow important decisions to be taken quickly.
The disclosure of more than 400 cyberattacks this year has renewed attention on Pakistan’s digital security. Authorities are now facing growing pressure to strengthen national cybersecurity systems and improve preparedness against future threats.
