National CERT Issues Cybersecurity Alert to Protect Government e-Office System
By Tanveer Ahmed :
The National Computer Emergency Response Team has issued a major advisory directing federal ministries to strengthen the security of the government’s e-Office system within 30 days, amid rising cyber threats targeting sensitive digital infrastructure.
According to officials, the advisory has been sent to 43 ministries and key departments, urging immediate implementation of enhanced cybersecurity measures.
Key security measures outlined
The National CERT has recommended deploying advanced protections such as next-generation firewalls to monitor network traffic and block unauthorised access attempts. Ministries have also been instructed to limit system access strictly to approved users and designated networks.
Authorities stressed that the e-Office platform should remain as isolated as possible from the public internet to minimise exposure to external cyberattacks.
Institutional strengthening
The advisory also calls for structural reforms, including the appointment of a Director of Cyber Security in every ministry and the establishment of dedicated cybersecurity teams under the National Information Technology Board.
Director General of National CERT, Dr Haider Abbas, has formally shared these recommendations with federal departments, while Khurram Javed has been tasked with coordinating implementation across ministries.
Tightened access controls
Officials have directed ministries to enforce strict access policies, including IP whitelisting and mandatory use of strong passwords combined with two-factor authentication for all users of government email and e-Office systems.
Only approved devices and secure networks will be allowed access, while the use of unauthorised VPN services has been banned without prior approval from relevant authorities.
Focus on system protection
The advisory further emphasises endpoint security, requiring ministries to install updated antivirus software and follow cybersecurity protocols issued by both the National CERT and the National Telecommunication and Information Security Board.
Officials say the measures are critical to preventing cyber intrusions and safeguarding sensitive government data as threats to digital infrastructure continue to grow.
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