Cyberattacks Surge in Pakistan: 98 Incidents Reported in First Three Months of 2026

Islamabad

Pakistan has recorded 98 cyberattacks in the first quarter of 2026, highlighting a rising trend in digital threats targeting government, business, and educational institutions, official reports show.

Provincial governments faced the highest number of attacks with 32 incidents, while federal agencies were targeted 21 times. Businesses reported 16 cybersecurity incidents, and educational institutions experienced 13 cases. The telecom sector recorded four attacks, and the health, power, and media sectors reported three incidents each. Defense and aviation sectors each saw one reported cyber event.

Among the attacks, 42 cases involved website hacking, while 17 incidents each of data leaks and DDoS attacks were reported. Additionally, four phishing campaigns and nine fake website cases emerged during the quarter. Only two attacks led to complete website shutdowns.

Cybersecurity trends in Pakistan have shown a significant increase over recent years. In 2024, a total of 410 incidents were reported, rising to 517 in 2025. Targeted attacks on government institutions have also increased sharply: federal agencies faced 47 attacks in 2024, rising to 111 in 2025, while provincial governments saw 69 incidents in 2024 and 137 in 2025.

Experts warn that the rising frequency of cyberattacks underscores the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity frameworks, stronger IT infrastructure, and awareness programs across both public and private sectors to protect critical digital assets.