Tech Desk 
May 07, 2025
With tensions between India and Pakistan rising, the latter’s National Cyber Emergency Response Team (NCERT) has issued an advisory, warning of a surge in cyber attacks spreading misinformation and causing disruption in major networks.
The advisory highlighted that hostile elements are attempting to exploit the current situation by launching targeted cyber campaigns to mislead the public and compromise sensitive national infrastructure.
These attacks involve deceptive messages, phishing schemes, and fabricated stories aimed at creating confusion and uncertainty, as reported by Geo News.
Tactics used by notorious hackers include homograph attacks (where deceptive URLs mimic legitimate websites), messages with official logos, and ads laced with malware. The primary objective of these attacks is to sow confusion and minimise trust.
In its advisory, NCERT urged citizens to remain cautious, avoid clicking on suspicious links or engaging with unverified emails and social media messages.
Additional safety measures for ordinary citizens include using strong passwords, activation of multi-factor authentication, limiting app permissions, and installing updated antivirus software in devices.
The advisory also stressed the importance of relying only on official sources for information and updates, given the sudden uptick in unverified rumours circulating on WhatsApp and other social media platforms.
The public has also been urged not to share unverified information regarding cyber attacks on Pakistan, and act vigilantly in the face of potential digital threats.
