NCERT has recommended the deactivation of smartphone location services, particularly in sensitive locales, coupled with the enforcement of robust password protocols.
In a proactive move aimed at safeguarding the digital integrity of Pakistani officials and citizens, the National Computer Emergency Team (NCERT) has initiated robust measures to counter potential cyber threats. Recent advisories issued by NCERT have shed light on the emergence of hostile Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs) targeting Pakistani officials via Android applications accessible on the Google Play Store.
The advisory issued by NCERT has raised alarm bells over the proliferation of suspicious Android applications strategically designed to clandestinely extract personal and financial data from unsuspecting victims’ mobile phones.
These malicious applications have been reported to surreptitiously harvest a plethora of sensitive information, including media files, contact lists, calendars, call logs, and message logs. Shockingly, some of these nefarious apps brazenly offer to furnish Personal Identifiable Information (PII) of Pakistani citizens in exchange for pecuniary gains.
To counteract the looming threat, NCERT has underscored the imperative for government officials and citizens alike to exercise prudence when downloading applications, advocating for the avoidance of third-party sources and apps developed by unknown entities.
Users are strongly urged to meticulously scrutinize app reviews and privacy policies, exercise restraint in divulging sensitive information, and routinely audit permissions granted to installed applications.
In addition to exercising caution during app downloads, NCERT has emphasized the pivotal role of perusing privacy policies prior to app installation, advocating for the maintenance of Google Play Protect functionality, and prompt updating of mobile operating systems.
Vigilance is also urged against opening emails and attachments originating from unfamiliar or dubious sources, with users encouraged to desist from storing official data on smartphones.
Further amplifying the protective measures, NCERT has recommended the deactivation of smartphone location services, particularly in sensitive locales, coupled with the enforcement of robust password protocols. The installation of reputable antivirus and anti-malware software, complemented by regular updates of signature definitions, is strongly advocated as an additional layer of defense against cyber threats.
The comprehensive advisory issued by NCERT has been disseminated across all federal ministries, divisions, and provincial governments, accompanied by directives to ensure widespread awareness and adherence to the outlined protective measures. This concerted effort underscores NCERT’s unwavering commitment to fortifying Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and protecting its citizens from the perils of cyber threats.
