Islamabad, Nov 12: The PTA annual cybersecurity report reveals a sharp rise in cyber-attacks against Pakistan’s digital infrastructure in 2023. Key threats include phishing, malware, DDoS, ransomware, and insider attacks.
The telecom sector faced 720 malware attacks, 550 phishing attacks, 300 DDoS incidents, 200 ransomware intrusions, and 150 insider threats. These figures highlight the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity measures.
The report also raises concerns about Advanced Persistent Threats (APT) groups. These sophisticated groups continuously evolve their methods and target high-value sectors, such as government, healthcare, and internet infrastructure.
Major APT groups like Gamaredon, Donot, Sidewinder, and Lazarus focused on critical sectors in Pakistan, driven by geopolitical motives.
In the telecom sector, APT groups were active, with Gamaredon carrying out 20 attacks, Donot 14, Bitter 13, Kimsuky and Lazarus 8 each, and Sidewinder 7.
There were 17 other attacks from various APTs. The PTA’s report suggests the need for improved cybersecurity across both public and private sectors to tackle rising cyber risks.
