SECP Warns Companies of Cyber Threats Amid Geopolitical Tensions

The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has issued a cybersecurity advisory for all registered companies, citing growing geopolitical tensions and escalating cybersecurity threats. The advisory warns businesses to adopt robust security protocols to safeguard their digital infrastructure and avoid potential disruptions. According to the official statement, companies that fail to implement effective cybersecurity measures may face operational disruptions, data loss, and damage to their corporate reputation. The SECP emphasized that adherence to global best practices in cybersecurity is essential to maintaining business continuity and stakeholder trust in today’s digital environment. The advisory outlines several key recommendations, including enforcing strict access controls, minimizing network vulnerabilities, preparing response plans for cyberattacks, and enhancing user awareness. The SECP reiterated its commitment to protecting the country’s financial and informational infrastructure from emerging digital threats. Sources indicate that the advisory was prompted by rising tensions between Pakistan and India, particularly in the wake of the recent Pahalgam attack. In response to the incident, Indian hackers reportedly targeted multiple Pakistani websites, leading to retaliatory cyberattacks by Pakistani hackers on Indian digital assets. Officials from the Ministry of IT stated that Pakistan’s cyber infrastructure remains secure and that all attempted attacks from India have been effectively neutralized. Meanwhile, Pakistani hackers have reportedly breached several key Indian websites.