Pakistan Computer Emergency Response Team (PkCERT) is a national initiative aimed at strengthening cyber security in Pakistan. PkCERT was established to counter the growing cyber threats and hacking attempts targeting various public sector entities.

History[edit]

The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) on 12 October 2023 announced the formation of the country's first National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT).^[1] The development was aimed at keeping Pakistan's cyberspace safe from ever-emerging threats and hacking. Attempt to target public sector institutions.^[2][3]

The Federal Cabinet of Pakistan approved the Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) Rule 2023 on 17 July 2023.^[4] The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication officially notified the CERT Rules on 13 October 2023.^[5]

Role and responsibilities[edit]

The primary objective of these CERT teams at both the national and sectoral levels is to enhance Pakistan's overall cyber security posture and resilience.^[2][3] CERTs are responsible for protecting against, detecting and responding to cyber security incidents, and will enhance the country's capacity to manage cyber security incidents.^[6] The recently established CERT team is assigned to create a national framework that will manage responses to threats, assaults on vital infrastructure, information systems, data, or extensive breaches of information systems throughout Pakistan.^[1]

References[edit]