Pakistan Strengthens Cybersecurity After Hybrid War Success

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Pakistan has strengthened its cybersecurity defenses and confidence following its successful response to a recent hybrid war involving cyber and conventional threats, according to Minister for IT and Telecommunications Shaza Fatima. She highlighted these achievements while speaking at the Next Gen Cyber Resilience Workshop and Telecom Cybersecurity Award 2024-25, emphasizing that the conflict in May was not limited to traditional warfare but also included significant cyber warfare elements. Pakistan, she said, managed to protect its digital infrastructure and emerge secure in the face of these challenges.

Shaza Fatima emphasized the critical need for robust cybersecurity regulations to tackle potential threats in the evolving digital landscape. She urged young Pakistanis to become more aware of online security, and committed to making cyberspace safer for women and children. As technology rapidly advances, she pointed out, the demand for strong cybersecurity measures will continue to rise.

The minister outlined the government’s vision to establish a “Digital Nation Pakistan” with improved internet connectivity. Efforts are underway to install two new submarine cables to expand network capacity. She also mentioned ongoing work on a national fibreisation policy and amendments to the Telecom Act to resolve right-of-way challenges. However, she acknowledged that the limited telecom spectrum currently hinders faster technological growth.

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman, retired Maj Gen Hafeezur Rehman, called on the public to adopt modern technologies, noting that Pakistan remains behind the global curve. He highlighted that while Pakistan is preparing for 5G, many countries are already discussing the move to 6G technology. Rehman also raised concerns about the misuse of artificial intelligence, particularly the creation of fake audio and video content.

Additionally, the PTA chairman announced that rules for the Pakistan Satellite and Radio-Based Services (PSARB) are close to finalization. Once relevant commercial registrations are complete, Pakistan will launch low-orbit satellite-based internet services, offering new opportunities for connectivity across the country.

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