Business Desk 
Sep 11, 2025
In a bid to regulate cryptocurrency and other digital assets, the government of Pakistan has approved new standards for cryptographic and IT security devices.
Developed by the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) and recommended by the National Telecom and Information Technology Security Board (NTISB), the freshly approved framework for crypto regulation has been designed to secure digital transactions and is likely to pave the way to legalise cryptocurrency in the country.
These new standards will ensure the implementation of strict testing and certification for equipment like hardware security modules, encryption devices, and firewalls.
Devices will be classified into four security levels, and all products will be required to undergo inspection for vulnerabilities. Similarly, developers will be bound to obtain NTISB approval before deploying any new technology, as reported by Phoneworld.
With these changes in place, numerous public and private sector institutions will be impacted, including NADRA, the Civil Aviation Authority, and law enforcement agencies.
In light of the new framework, outdated devices would be phased out, with organisations advised to prepare for procurement and replacement.
The new system, set to take effect in June 2028, will focus on the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of IT systems, known as the “CIA triad” of cybersecurity.
