In recent news, the federal cabinet has approved the National Cyber Security Policy 2021 which will allow the establishment of a proper framework focused on cybersecurity. In a nutshell, any cyberattack on any respective institution of Pakistan will be considered as an act of aggression against national sovereignty and all respective steps of retaliation will be taken in a timely manner by the committee. This committee comprises the secretaries and senior officers of 13 different departments.
This policy will act as a new way for the country to defend itself as currently, Pakistan holds a weak cybersecurity posture in the tech ecosystem. Furthermore, the policy aims to counter malicious use of information and communication technologies which may pose a threat for the nation in terms of finance and security.
Moreover, the policy has called upon stakeholders so that a new information-sharing mechanism could be devised safe from prying eyes and susceptible cyberattacks. According to the Federal Minister for IT, Syed Aminul Haq, the primary objective of the policy was to ensure the privacy of online data and private yet important content of the Pakistani citizens and government and private entities while maintaining its privacy.
He further stated:
“The IT ministry and all relevant public and private institutions will be provided all possible assistance and support to ensure that their data, services, ICT products, and systems are in line with the requirements of cybersecurity.”
