Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja has warned about Pakistan’s growing cybersecurity challenges. She stressed that digitalisation and expanding artificial intelligence (AI) use are creating new security risks.
Speaking at Cyber Security Week’s closing ceremony on Thursday, the minister highlighted the need for stronger digital protection and greater public awareness. She also revealed that scammers had attempted to defraud her father through a fake phone call.
Fake Calls and Social Media Sharing Raise Security Concerns
Khawaja said hackers had access to extensive information about her family during the fraud attempt. She cautioned that sharing family photographs and home details online could expose people to potential exploitation.
Such digital footprints, she explained, may provide malicious actors with information for scams and other harmful activities. Moreover, phone hacking can expose sensitive personal information, making digital security essential for everyday life.
The minister stressed that people must protect their digital presence with the same seriousness they apply to physical safety. Therefore, greater awareness of online risks remains important as more people embrace digital services.
Pakistan’s Digital Borders Face Growing Cyber Risks
Khawaja also emphasised the importance of securing Pakistan’s digital borders against emerging threats. Referring to last year’s conflict with India, she said Pakistan faced cyber warfare alongside the physical confrontation.
She further claimed that Pakistani forces had defeated India during Marka-e-Haq. Her remarks highlighted the government’s concerns about cybersecurity during periods of regional tension.
As digital systems become increasingly important, protecting national infrastructure and online networks remains a significant priority.
Children Face Cyberbullying and Online Safety Risks
The minister also drew attention to children’s growing exposure to online dangers, including cyberbullying. She noted that even young children increasingly use social media platforms and participate in the metaverse.
Consequently, Khawaja urged parents to remain aware of their children’s online activities and interactions. She stressed the importance of knowing whom children communicate with and understanding their digital environments.
Cybersecurity Response and Reporting Mechanisms
Khawaja congratulated the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and industry stakeholders for their contributions during Cyber Security Week. She emphasised that cybersecurity awareness should reach every section of society.
She also said national and provincial cybersecurity emergency response teams stood ready to address threats. However, she acknowledged the need to improve incident-reporting mechanisms.
The minister said the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) had been activated under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). Additionally, she stated that a social media regulatory authority would become operational soon.
Khawaja concluded by highlighting progress in Pakistan’s cybersecurity efforts over the past two years. She said these initiatives had helped the country gain recognition among leading nations in cybersecurity, as digital protection becomes increasingly important.
For the latest updates, visit and follow The Truth International website (www.thetruthinternational.com) and subscribe to the YouTube Channel.
