In a move to strengthen digital safety, the federal government has made Pakistan Security Standards mandatory for all sectors. The step, announced by the National Cyber Emergency Response Team, aims to create a unified cybersecurity and cryptographic system. The policy will apply to both public and private institutions, ensuring every digital platform follows the same secure framework for national cyber protection.
Legal Deadline Set for Full Implementation
According to the official notification, Pakistan Security Standards will become fully enforceable from June 1, 2028. After this date, any non-compliant cybersecurity product will be illegal to manufacture or sell. These regulations bring Pakistan closer to international systems such as the US Federal Information Processing Standards and ISO 15408. The alignment will help local industries meet global security expectations and ensure safer digital trade.
Defense Sector Faces Early Deadline
The defense sector has been given an accelerated timeline for implementation. The National Technical Information Security Board has ordered full compliance by December 2025 for new defense procurements. This requirement marks a major leap in safeguarding Pakistan’s defense technology and communication systems. It also ensures the country’s critical data is protected under strict cryptographic assurance and trusted digital frameworks.
Focus on National Digital Protection
The Pakistan Security Standards aim to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of national digital systems. By introducing these measures, the government hopes to reduce cyber threats in sensitive fields such as defense, banking, telecommunications, and energy. National CERT has urged early adoption, saying that proactive organizations will gain stronger protection and higher resilience against cyberattacks targeting national operations.
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Vendors Instructed to Begin Certification
To prepare for the rollout, vendors and technology developers have been advised to start certification immediately. Products failing to meet the new standards will not qualify for future government or defense contracts. The National CERT has recommended early evaluation of products, vendor coordination for compliance, and policy updates that include PSS requirements. Awareness programs will also be held to guide the tech industry.
Step Toward Digital Independence
Experts have praised the new regulations as a step toward digital independence and stronger data control. The policy reduces dependency on foreign security certifications while boosting investor confidence in Pakistan’s growing tech ecosystem. It also promises to strengthen e-governance and national cybersecurity. By adopting these standards, Pakistan positions itself as a credible and secure digital nation in global cooperation networks.
Public and Private Collaboration Encouraged
The National CERT has called for deeper cooperation between the government and the private sector to ensure smooth adoption. The Pakistan Security Standards will serve as the foundation for national cyber resilience and defense readiness. Officials believe this initiative not only strengthens digital trust but also prepares Pakistan for a secure and self-reliant digital future.
