Following a recent surge in cyber attacks involving fake emails and WhatsApp messages purportedly from government entities, the Cabinet Division has issued a stern warning to all federal ministries and departments.
The alert, intended to protect sensitive government data and information, comes as the country grapples with an increasingly complex cyber threat landscape.
Cabinet Division Advisory Against Fake IDs
The frightening cyber threat manifests itself in the form of fraudulent emails and messages falsely attributed to various government departments.
These deceptive messages have perplexed recipients and exposed them to potential security breaches.
Notably, the bogus email address “(JS COORD)” has been at the heart of this wave of malicious communications.
Furthermore, criminals have gone so far as to impersonate high-profile government offices such as the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and the PM Secretariat.
Concerns have been raised about the credibility and security of official communication channels as a result of this.
Malicious Attachments
The alert from the Cabinet Division has shed light on the malicious intent behind these fraudulent emails.
They frequently contain malicious attachments and require recipients to download these files onto their computers.
Such attachments may contain viruses, malware, or other cyber threats, jeopardizing the security of government systems.
Heightened Vigilance Advised
In response to these grave cybersecurity concerns, the Cabinet Division has strongly advised all federal ministries to use extreme caution when dealing with incoming emails and messages.
Officials are being advised to be on high alert while the matter is being investigated at “the highest level.”
Impersonation Should Be Avoided
The alert also highlights a potential new cybercriminal tactic. Emails and phone calls purporting to be from the Special Investment Facility Council (SIFC) could be forgeries.
The Cabinet Division has specifically warned against interacting with individuals impersonating “Javed,” who poses as the “deputy director of SIFC and PM Secretariat,” and “Shehzad Ahmed,” who poses as the “assistant director of PMO and SIFC Cell.”
Strict Email Handling Procedures
The letter emphasizes the importance of verifying the credibility of email sources in order to reduce risks.
It also requires antivirus software to be installed on all systems used to open emails.
For increased security, an Apple MAC or a PC loaded with an appropriate user-friendly version of GUI-based Linux is recommended.
To read our blog on “Govt. warns about scamming citizens from fake institutions,” click here.
