Govt Institutions on High Alert as Cyberattack Threat Looms in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD

Pakistan’s government institutions have been placed on high alert following warnings of potential cyberattacks targeting sensitive departments, according to a cybersecurity advisory issued by the National Cyber Emergency Response Team.

Officials said a suspected hacking group is likely to launch phishing campaigns aimed at stealing sensitive information from government employees through deceptive emails and fake websites.

The advisory revealed that fraudulent websites impersonating key institutions, including the ministries of defence and finance, have been identified. Fake links using the names of regulatory and cybersecurity bodies are also circulating to mislead users.

Authorities warned that such attacks could pose serious risks to critical infrastructure if not contained in time. Hackers are reportedly sending malicious files via email and spreading false messages about account suspensions to trick users into revealing credentials.

In response, institutions have been directed to immediately block suspicious domains and strengthen security across firewalls and email servers. Multi-factor authentication has been made mandatory for access to sensitive systems, while the use of advanced endpoint detection tools has been recommended to identify threats in real time.

Officials have also instructed affected users to change passwords without delay and urged both government employees and the public to remain vigilant against phishing attempts.

The advisory underscores growing cybersecurity challenges facing Pakistan as digital threats continue to evolve alongside increased reliance on online systems.