Newly launched website of PKCERT is expected to play a pivotal role in raising awareness about cyber threats, covering areas such as cyber-attacks, cyber terrorism, & cyber espionage.
The Ministry of IT and Telecom has decided to formally notify the National Computer Emergency Response Team (National CERT) under the newly enacted Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) Rules 2023. This strategic move is part of a comprehensive initiative aimed at fortifying the nation’s defenses against evolving cyber threats.
The officials of the Ministry of IT and Telecom have outlined that the notification will lay the groundwork for the establishment of both the National CERT and Sectoral CERTs, marking a crucial step towards a more resilient cybersecurity infrastructure. Following these notifications, the formation of the CERT Council will follow, adding a layer of coordination and collaboration among key stakeholders.
The Ministry emphasizes that the groundwork for the National CERT has already been laid out, courtesy of the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) project “Cyber Security for Digital Pakistan.” This initiative has ensured the readiness of infrastructure, including the recruitment of skilled personnel and the procurement of necessary software and hardware.
The newly launched website of PKCERT is expected to play a pivotal role in raising awareness about cyber threats, covering areas such as cyber-attacks, cyber terrorism, and cyber espionage. Upon the official notification of the National CERT, it will seamlessly integrate with the ongoing PSDP project, progressing swiftly into the execution phase.
Ministry officials highlight the subsequent notification of Sectoral CERTs, underlining the holistic approach to cybersecurity that extends beyond the national level. This phased approach aims to address specific sectoral needs and challenges, ensuring a tailored and effective response to cyber threats across various industries.
In a more intricate step, the establishment of the CERT Council will follow the notification process. The Council, designed to include members from the National CERT, Sectoral CERTs, and diverse ministries/divisions, represents a sophisticated layer of coordination and collaboration. While acknowledging the complexity of the Council’s composition, the Ministry has decided to finalize it after notifying both the National CERT and Sectoral CERTs.
The impending launch of the National Cyber Emergency Response Team of Pakistan is poised to play a pivotal role as a government entity entrusted with safeguarding digital assets, sensitive information, and critical infrastructure. Its multifaceted responsibilities include the detection, prevention, and response to cyber threats, fostering cybersecurity awareness, conducting research and development, and implementing robust cybersecurity policies.
Furthermore, the Ministry of IT and Telecom envisions fostering international cooperation in the realm of cybersecurity. Emphasizing the global nature of cyber threats, officials underscore the importance of collaborative efforts to effectively address and mitigate these challenges. This forward-looking approach aligns with the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, acknowledging the need for a united front against cyber threats in an increasingly interconnected world.