The government has decided to create a National Cybersecurity Authority as digital threats continue to grow, aiming to protect vital systems and strengthen the country’s cyber defenses. The authority will introduce nationwide security standards and ensure that critical institutions follow updated protection measures.
Moreover, the Ministry of IT has already completed a draft of the new Cybersecurity Act and shared it with different departments for their input. Work on the National Cybersecurity Policy is also moving forward under the Digital Economy Enhancement Programme, which focuses on improving overall digital safety.
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Additionally, the ministry recently confirmed several major cyberattacks in recent years, although detailed information was kept confidential due to security concerns. It acknowledged ongoing problems such as weak monitoring systems, limited skilled staff, and slow reporting processes, which allow many cyber incidents to go unnoticed.
Furthermore, one of the most serious attacks targeted OGDCL, where hackers accessed the core data centre and deleted 21 virtual servers. The company restored its services after three days using its disaster recovery system, highlighting the urgent need for stronger cyber protection across key sectors.
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Meanwhile, the government is also advancing projects like the Secure Data Exchange Layer and digital identity systems. Data belonging to Nadra, FBR, and telecom operators has already been classified as critical digital infrastructure, and immigration systems may soon receive the same status to ensure better safety.
Until the new authority becomes fully functional, the CERT Council — which includes 14 public and private organizations — will continue coordinating responses to cyberattacks. This arrangement allows institutions to share threat information quickly while the government works on long-term cybersecurity reforms.