ISLAMABAD

Pakistan intensified its cyber vigilance and digital security measures during heightened tensions with India, restricting access to 202 hostile digital assets and maintaining round-the-clock cyber monitoring to safeguard national interests, according to the Economic Survey 2025-26.

The survey revealed that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) remained on 24/7 cyber surveillance duty during April and May 2025, closely monitoring the digital landscape to counter emerging cyber threats, misinformation campaigns, and hostile online activities.

As part of its response, PTA restricted and blocked access to 202 digital assets deemed harmful to Pakistan’s national interests and digital security. The regulator also worked with Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms to remove content of Indian origin that was considered inappropriate or in violation of regulatory directives.

The Economic Survey noted that authorities coordinated with relevant institutions to counter cross-border disinformation campaigns and online propaganda, reflecting a broader effort to protect Pakistan’s digital space during a period of regional uncertainty.

Officials said the measures helped strengthen national digital security, limit the spread of misleading information, and safeguard critical online infrastructure against potential threats.

The disclosures underscore the growing importance of cybersecurity and information warfare in modern conflicts, where digital platforms have become key battlegrounds alongside conventional security domains.

Pakistan has increasingly invested in cyber resilience and digital governance frameworks as internet usage, online services, and digital dependence continue to expand across the country.