ISLAMABAD – In light of escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, the National Cyber Emergency Response Team (NCERT) has released a high-alert cybersecurity advisory, warning of a surge in cyberattacks and disinformation campaigns designed to exploit the volatile environment.
The advisory outlines that malicious actors are targeting Pakistan’s critical digital infrastructure through advanced cyber tactics. These include phishing emails, fake social media posts, fraudulent alerts, and misleading messages shared through messaging apps.
“These attacks aim to create confusion, extract sensitive data, and disrupt essential systems,” the advisory states. It cautions that the threat is not confined to government institutions—corporate sectors and private individuals are equally at risk.
Cybercriminals are reportedly using deceptive methods such as homograph attacks—where domain names appear legitimate but use altered characters—and malicious QR codes to redirect users to harmful websites. Malware is also being spread through compromised websites and unauthorized online advertisements.
To counter these threats, NCERT urges the public to:
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links or QR codes.
- Refrain from forwarding unverified news or messages, especially on WhatsApp and social media.
- Trust only official sources for updates and emergency information.
- Strengthen personal and organizational cyber defenses by enabling multi-factor authentication, updating antivirus software, and monitoring network activity.
“Verify before you trust. Think before you share,” the advisory stresses, highlighting the public’s role in resisting disinformation and cyber manipulation.
NCERT confirmed that rapid-response measures are in place to tackle any incidents and called for national vigilance.
“By staying alert and informed, we can protect ourselves and our digital infrastructure,” the advisory concludes.
