Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja on Tuesday confirmed that Pakistan has successfully thwarted a series of cyber attacks allegedly launched by Indian hackers targeting the websites of various government ministries.
The attempted breaches, reportedly aimed at disrupting digital operations and stealing sensitive data, were neutralized before any damage could be done.
Speaking to the media, Shaza Fatima said that despite multiple hacking attempts, the attackers failed to breach any system or gain access to critical data related to federal ministries. “We managed to counter the cyber attacks swiftly and effectively. No major issues have arisen as a result,” she stated.
The attacks reportedly targeted ministries at the federal level, but officials confirmed that robust cyber security measures prevented any breakdown in services or leakage of information.
No threat to telecom sector
The minister clarified that no cyber attack had been carried out on Pakistan’s telecom sector, which remains secure. “Our telecom infrastructure remains untouched, and our teams continue to monitor the situation vigilantly,” she added.
Pakistan among top nations in cyber security
Shaza Fatima highlighted that Pakistan has consistently ranked among the top countries in the world for cyber security over the past two years. “We have highly capable professionals who work around the clock to defend our digital borders,” she said.
On April 28, the National Computer Emergency Response Team (National CERT) issued a high-priority advisory warning of an increased risk of cyberattacks targeting Pakistan's critical infrastructure and government institutions.
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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.
