Pakistan to Launch First AI Policy: Boosting Digital Infrastructure and Elevating Cybersecurity
Introduction
A New Era for Digital Pakistan
In a groundbreaking move, Pakistan is poised to unveil its first-ever Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy by early 2025. This ambitious initiative aims to revolutionize the nation’s cybersecurity landscape, elevate its digital economy, and position Pakistan as a leading digital hub globally.
Objectives of the AI Policy
Enhancing Cybersecurity
The core focus of the AI policy is to enhance cybersecurity capabilities. By leveraging AI, Pakistan aims to detect and respond to cyber threats in real-time, effectively preventing data breaches and safeguarding sensitive information.
Digital Economy Transformation
A significant aspect of the policy is to boost the digital economy. The government envisions transforming Pakistan into a “Digital Pakistan,” where robust digital infrastructure supports economic growth and technological innovation.
Current Cybersecurity Standing
Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) Rankings
Pakistan’s efforts in digital transformation have already begun to bear fruit. As of 2024, the country has advanced to a Tier-1 (role-model) ranking, positioning itself among the top 40 countries in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI). This is a significant leap from its 79th position the previous year.
Continuous Improvement
However, Syed Junaid Imam, Member IT, Ministry of Information Technology and Telecom, emphasizes that this improvement is just the beginning. “Improvement in this rank does not mean we have become secure. It is just a flag that we are taking steps and measures in the right direction. But we still have a long way to go,” he stated.
Key Components of the AI Policy
National CERT and Sectoral CERTs
The government has already established a national Computer/Cyber Emergency Response Team (CERT). Moving forward, the focus will be on notifying sectoral CERTs across various domains such as telecom, banking, and education. These CERTs will share threat intelligence, enhancing overall cybersecurity measures.
Collaboration and Coordination
A collaborative approach is crucial for the success of the AI policy. The policy development committee comprises representatives from industry, academia, the private sector, and government. This multi-stakeholder collaboration ensures comprehensive and effective policy formulation.
Industry Insights
Real-time Threat Detection
AI’s role in cybersecurity is underscored by industry experts. Asad Effendi, Founder & CEO of Secure Networks, highlights that AI can help detect cyber threats in real-time, respond promptly, and protect valuable data.
Lessons from Neighboring Countries
Ammar Jaffri, Former Additional DG, FIA, and President of PISA Pakistan, points out that lacking a formal forum for cyber threat intelligence exchange has cost neighboring countries like Bangladesh dearly.
Challenges and Threats
High-Priority Cyber Attack Targets
Igor Stolyarov, Technical Sales & Business Manager at Group IB, notes that Pakistan has emerged as a high-priority target for cyber attackers. Primary targets include education, communication, military infrastructure sites, and government sectors.
Evolving Ransomware Tactics
Haytham Nassar, Cybersecurity Specialist at CISCO, warns of evolving ransomware tactics. Hackers are increasingly using dormant accounts to breach data, with significant focus on the financial, education, and manufacturing sectors.
Future Outlook
AI and Cybersecurity Synergy
The integration of AI into cybersecurity strategies is set to transform Pakistan’s digital landscape. The AI policy is not just a step towards digital transformation; it’s a leap towards securing Pakistan’s digital future.
Achieving Digital Pakistan
The government’s commitment to developing robust digital infrastructure and the AI policy’s implementation will pave the way for Pakistan’s journey towards becoming a leading digital economy.
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FAQs
What is the main objective of Pakistan’s AI policy?
The primary objective is to enhance cybersecurity capabilities and transform Pakistan into a digital economy by leveraging AI technologies.
How will the AI policy improve cybersecurity?
The AI policy aims to detect and respond to cyber threats in real-time, preventing data breaches and safeguarding sensitive information.
What are CERTs, and how do they function?
CERTs (Computer/Cyber Emergency Response Teams) are dedicated teams responsible for handling cybersecurity incidents. They share threat intelligence to enhance overall cybersecurity measures.
Who are the key stakeholders involved in developing the AI policy?
The policy development involves representatives from industry, academia, the private sector, and government, ensuring a comprehensive approach.
What are the current cybersecurity challenges Pakistan faces?
Pakistan faces challenges such as being a high-priority target for cyber attackers, evolving ransomware tactics, and the need for improved threat detection and response mechanisms.
Conclusion
Towards a Secure Digital Future
Pakistan’s first AI policy marks a significant milestone in the nation’s digital transformation journey. By focusing on enhancing cybersecurity and boosting the digital economy, Pakistan is set to emerge as a leading digital hub, securing its place among the top nations in global cybersecurity rankings.
