Pakistan Unveils New Measures to Bolster Cybersecurity against Attacks

ISLAMABAD 10/16/2023: In a significant development, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) officially unveiled the Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) Rules 2023 on Thursday, aimed at fortifying the country's defenses against cyber attacks, particularly those targeting government data.

Federal Minister for IT and Telecom, Dr. Umar Saif, underscored the vital importance of safeguarding Pakistan's cyberspace in a statement posted on the X platform (formerly Twitter). He expressed that the nation's first step toward this crucial goal was the establishment of the national CERT. Additionally, he emphasized the upcoming formation of sector-specific CERTs, which collectively would create an institutional framework capable of ensuring the swift response to cyber threats.

Furthermore, Dr. Saif articulated that a coordinated approach, as outlined in these new rules, would empower Pakistan to mount a robust defense against cyber threats. One of the key provisions of the CERT Rules is the establishment of the National Security Operations Centre, aimed at facilitating the practical implementation of these regulations.

As per the CERT Rules, both national and sector-level CERTs will be created, tasked with the continuous monitoring and protection of Pakistan's cyberspace. The national CERT, funded by the Ministry of IT, will collaborate closely with sector-level CERT teams and extend timely assistance when necessary.

The primary responsibility of the national CERT will be to coordinate with various CERTs to respond effectively to threats or attacks on systems, critical infrastructure, or widespread information system attacks within Pakistan.

Moreover, the government CERT will shoulder the responsibility of ensuring cybersecurity and managing affairs related to the public sector at both the federal and provincial levels.