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In a major stride toward digital transformation, Pakistan is preparing to roll out its first-ever Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy by early 2025. This ambitious policy focuses on integrating AI to strengthen cybersecurity across sectors, with capabilities to detect and respond to cyber threats in real-time, potentially averting critical data breaches. The AI policy aligns with Pakistan’s goal of becoming a “Digital Pakistan” and bolstering its digital economy.
The policy is being developed alongside the nation’s rapidly expanding digital public infrastructure. With these advancements, Pakistan aims to ascend the Global Cybersecurity Index, moving from its current top 40 ranking to a position within the top 10–15 ranks.
AI Policy and Cybersecurity Goals
Speaking at the ‘Cyber Threat Intelligence 2024’ conference, Syed Junaid Imam, Member IT, Ministry of Information Technology and Telecom, confirmed the ongoing efforts to draft Pakistan’s inaugural AI policy. He emphasized the critical role AI will play in cybersecurity, stating, “AI is essential for ensuring the safety of our cyberspace.” The conference, organized by Total Communications, highlighted that Pakistan’s improved cybersecurity ranking in 2024, moving to the top 40 countries from 79th place the previous year, is a testament to its progress but also a reminder of the journey ahead.
The Road to a Digital Economy
The AI policy and digital infrastructure initiatives reflect Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its digital economy. Imam noted that cybersecurity is foundational to Pakistan’s economic growth and digital transformation. “A secure cyberspace is essential if we want to drive Pakistan’s digital economy,” he said. The government is deploying resources to establish a stable, AI-driven cybersecurity framework, ensuring that Pakistan’s digital ecosystem remains robust and resilient.
Key Developments in Digital Infrastructure
To further bolster cybersecurity, the government has established a national CERT (Computer/Cyber Emergency Response Team), with plans to expand by creating sectoral CERTs in sectors like telecom, banking, education, and at the provincial level. These teams will share intelligence and collaborate on threat detection, providing a unified defense against cyber threats. This move underscores Pakistan’s commitment to digital protection as it aims to foster a safe environment for economic growth and digitalization.
Collaboration for Enhanced Cybersecurity
The AI policy is being developed through collaboration among industry experts, private sector leaders, academia, and government representatives. This diverse committee aims to create a comprehensive framework that meets Pakistan’s unique cybersecurity and digital needs.
Asad Effendi, Founder & CEO of Secure Networks, noted that AI offers significant advantages in cybersecurity, allowing real-time detection and response to cyber threats, effectively protecting valuable data and information. Such AI-enabled measures are vital as Pakistan strengthens its defense against cyber attacks, especially as the country has become a primary target for cybercriminals.
Rising Cyber Threats in Pakistan
In 2023, cyber threats intensified against Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, with primary targets including educational institutions, communications, military sites, and government sectors. According to Igor Stolyarov, Technical Sales & Business Manager at Group IB, these areas were at high risk, highlighting the need for a stronger cybersecurity framework. Additionally, Haytham Nassar, Cybersecurity Specialist at CISCO, revealed that ransomware attackers often exploit dormant accounts to initiate breaches, targeting sectors such as finance, education, and manufacturing.
Notable ransomware and malware groups active in 2023 included prominent names such as White Rabbit, RedLine Stealer, Raccoon, META Stealer, and Lockbit, which intensified attacks on Pakistan. As these cyber threats grow, the AI policy’s implementation could prove pivotal in securing Pakistan’s digital landscape.
Looking Ahead
Pakistan’s AI policy represents a significant step towards digital transformation, providing the foundation for a resilient cybersecurity framework and a thriving digital economy. As the government finalizes this policy and advances its digital infrastructure, Pakistan is set to achieve a safer, digitally empowered environment that supports economic growth and national security.
