New cybersecurity policy to be finalized soon, Minister IT

Minister for Information Technology and Telecom, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, has revealed that work on developing a new cybersecurity policy is in the final stages. While talking to the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), Dr. Khalid said that the IT ministry has consulted with the Ministry of Law and Justice and other relevant departments in order to finalize the new cyber policy.

Previously, former Minister for IT Anusha Rehman had expressed concerns that there is a dire need to devise a comprehensive cybersecurity policy, using a multi-stakeholder approach. But no solid steps were taken in this regard. However, now Khalid Maqbool has stated that the government will establish an authority under the cybersecurity policy to ensure its implications. The IT Minister has vowed to take steps to resolve problems that surface due to lack of modern technology.

Dr. Khalid revealed that the delay in developing cybersecurity policy is due to the announcement of the budget. He said that all expert and concerned authorities will give their suggestions upon the finalization of the first draft of the policy.

Meanwhile, during a recent meeting of Senate Standing committee on IT and Telecom, the committee decided to discuss the increasing rate of cyber crimes with relevant authorities including PTA. Khalid Siddiqui while giving a briefing on cybersecurity policy said that there is a need to form a strategy to restrict cyber crimes in the country.