The Government of Pakistan is planning to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to make the country’s online security better by 2025. AI will help find and stop online dangers quickly and protect data. This plan is part of making Pakistan a “Digital Pakistan” and improving its digital economy.
Better Cybersecurity Ranking
Pakistan wants to move up in the global cybersecurity rankings. In 2024, the country is in the top 40 countries, up from 79th place in 2023. The goal is to be in the top 10 or 15 countries.
Syed Junaid Imam from the Ministry of IT and Telecom said that AI will help protect Pakistan’s online space. He added that even though the country’s ranking is better, there is still a lot to do to be completely safe online.
Building a Digital Economy
Imam said that to grow Pakistan’s digital economy, the country must make sure its online systems are safe. Without good online security, the country cannot move forward.
Setting Up CERTs to Protect Pakistan
The government has made teams called Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) to help protect Pakistan from online dangers. They are also making teams for different areas like telecom, banking, and education. These teams will share information to stop cyber threats.
Working Together for Safety
Imam said it is important for the government, businesses, schools, and experts to work together to protect Pakistan online. A special team of people from these groups is helping to make the AI policy.
How AI Helps with Cybersecurity
AI can find dangers online and stop them quickly. Asad Effendi, CEO of Secure Networks, said AI will protect important data and stop attacks faster.
Cybersecurity Threats
Experts said Pakistan is a target for hackers. In 2023, hackers attacked schools, government sites, and military systems. These hackers used tools like ransomware to steal data.
Some of the hacker groups that attacked Pakistan include INC Blog, White Rabbit, and RedLine Stealer. These groups mostly targeted areas like finance, education, and manufacturing.
Learning from Others
Experts said other countries, like Bangladesh, suffered because they didn’t have a plan to share information about online dangers. Pakistan is learning from this and making sure it is ready.
Pakistan’s new AI plan is an important step to keep the country safe online. By using AI and working together, Pakistan hopes to protect its online systems and become a leader in the digital world.
