In response to recent cyberattacks targeting both public and private platforms, Pakistan has fast-tracked a comprehensive cybersecurity review of government websites to bolster digital defenses across state institutions.

The initiative, led by the National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT), involves a nationwide assessment to detect vulnerabilities and minimize the risk of data breaches or unauthorized access.

Officials confirmed that around 300 government websites, including those of ministries, attached departments, and other public entities, have been selected for the audit. Security scans have already been completed on 280 sites, with the remaining 20 still under review, marking a 93% completion rate.

Preliminary reports from the audit have been shared with relevant ministries to guide corrective actions. The assessment revealed a range of security weaknesses in servers, systems, and web applications, classified from critical to low severity across multiple platforms.

Government departments have been instructed to immediately enhance cybersecurity measures, update software, deploy web application firewalls, and tighten access controls to protect sensitive information. The audit has also highlighted issues such as outdated systems, weak passwords, and unsecured databases, prompting authorities to recommend system upgrades, improved backup protocols, and, in some cases, temporary website shutdowns for enhanced security.