Business Desk 
Mar 08, 2025
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is improving its digital security by switching from a web-based system to a Virtual Private Network (VPN)-based access for its regulatory portals. This move aims to make financial transactions safer as the country’s digital banking grows.
According to a circular issued by the central bank, the transition will take effect on May 30. The SBP has already digitised how it receives requests from regulated entities (REs) and how it issues regulatory decisions through its Regulatory Approval System (RAS).
To make the process smoother, the SBP has also launched a service desk system to handle complaints related to SBP-hosted portals, including RAS. This system will help financial institutions communicate better with the central bank.
To ensure a successful transition, the SBP has instructed financial institutions and other regulated bodies to set up Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) accounts ahead of time. MFA will add an extra layer of protection, ensuring that only authorised users can access the portals.
Furthermore, the central bank has stressed the importance of timely compliance so that financial institutions can access RAS and the service desk system without disruptions.
