AI cyber threat puts Pakistan’s banks and key infrastructure on alert

Pakistan’s National Cyber Emergency Response Team (NCERT) has warned of an increased risk of artificial intelligence-driven cyberattacks targeting financial institutions and critical infrastructure, urging relevant organisations to strengthen their cybersecurity measures.

In an advisory, the team highlighted the threat of increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks targeting online banking systems, digital banking platforms, payment networks and customers’ personal and financial data.

According to the advisory, hackers could use artificial intelligence to steal passwords and launch automated cyberattacks.

They could also attempt to create panic among users by displaying fraudulent account balances, potentially undermining confidence in the financial system.

The warning also covers oil and gas facilities, power generation and transmission systems, industrial operations, water supply networks, transport infrastructure and other essential public services.

NCERT identified third-party service providers and insecure remote access as additional cybersecurity risks.

The team has directed relevant departments and financial institutions to strengthen the security of their digital systems, review existing safeguards and ensure effective measures are in place to respond to potential cyberattacks.