Pakistan Mandates Cybersecurity Standards Across All Industries

Pakistan has mandated National Cybersecurity Standards (PCSS) for all sectors. Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority will enforce compliance across government entities, private companies, and critical infrastructure. Organizations including the Federal Board of Revenue and State Bank of Pakistan must conduct security audits or face penalties.

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Pakistan has made the National Cybersecurity Standards (PCSS) mandatory for all sectors, marking a significant shift in the country’s digital security framework. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority announced that compliance with these standards is now compulsory for government entities, private companies, and critical infrastructure operators.

Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Khawaja emphasized that this move strengthens Pakistan’s cyber resilience against growing digital threats. The National Cybersecurity Authority developed these comprehensive standards covering data protection, incident response protocols, and risk management frameworks.

Organizations must now conduct regular security audits and implement robust cybersecurity measures. The Federal Board of Revenue, State Bank of Pakistan, and major telecommunications companies are among the entities required to comply. Non-compliance could result in penalties and operational restrictions.

This initiative positions Pakistan alongside global cybersecurity leaders and creates opportunities for local cybersecurity firms to expand their services while protecting national digital assets.