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ISLAMABAD, Dec 18 (APP):The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Thursday concluded the Cybersecurity Awareness Week 2025, reaffirming its commitment to engage academia and promoting shared responsibility to protect society from emerging cyber threats amid rapid technological transformation.
Observed from December 11 to 17 under the theme “Building a Safe, Secure, and Resilient Cyberspace,” the week-long initiative brought together key stakeholders from government, international organizations, academia, and the telecommunications industry. Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar attended the concluding ceremony as chief guest, alongside Chairman PTA Hafeez Ur Rehman and Dr Samuel Rizk, representing the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Senior leadership from major telecom operators was also present.
Addressing the gathering, the minister highlighted how abrupt digital evolution is fueling misinformation, describing it as one of the most pressing global challenges. Referring to the recent tragic attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, he regretted that a peace-loving country was targeted through unverified allegations, underscoring the dangers of unchecked information in the digital space.
He stressed the need for enhanced digital literacy, sustained awareness initiatives, and robust regulatory mechanisms to bridge the widening gaps created by the rapid digital revolution. The minister noted that the government has established Pakistan’s first Digital Communication Department and a dedicated fact-checking unit within the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, while also strengthening coordination with media organizations.
Appreciating collaborative efforts to counter fake news, he called for a multidimensional strategy involving journalists, media professionals, government officials, content creators, and academia to promote responsible digital engagement.
Speaking on the occasion, PTA Chairman Hafeez Ur Rehman said that while Pakistan possesses strong cybersecurity systems and supportive government policies, cyber threats can only be effectively countered through indigenous capabilities and expertise. He urged users to exercise caution by avoiding unknown links and unnecessary clicks while browsing or conducting research online.
Dr Samuel Rizk commended the PTA for organizing the Awareness Week, noting that the rapidly growing number of internet users has significantly increased cyber-related challenges. He advised the public not to rely on unverified information to prevent unnecessary panic and emphasized the importance of integrated efforts to address cyber threats.
Representatives of leading telecommunications companies, including Jazz, Telenor, Zong, and Ufone, also highlighted their public awareness campaigns, noting the use of public service messages and other platforms to educate users about safe and responsible digital practices.