The National Computer Emergency Response Team (National CERT) has decided to brief senior government officials on the risks linked to the use of foreign software in government offices and institutions.
It was revealed that 80% of the software being used in government offices and institutions across Pakistan is imported, and hence, a risk. National CERT aims to reduce this risk by increasing awareness among senior officials, improving oversight of software purchases, and encouraging better decision-making to protect government data and systems.
Sources said the Director General of National CERT will brief the Federal Secretaries Committee on the growing dependence on software developed outside Pakistan and the possible security risks it carries.
The briefing will explain how foreign software can expose sensitive government information. Officials will be informed about threats such as unauthorized access to data, data leaks, and the risk of outside control over important government systems.
The Director General will also inform the committee about the required security checks and safety measures that must be followed before purchasing foreign software. The session will stress the need to properly review software risks, follow national security rules, and consult relevant authorities before approving such purchases.
Sources said that many government ministries regularly issue tenders for software and IT systems. However, senior officials often lack a clear understanding of the security risks involved. Officials noted that this lack of awareness increases the chances of cyber threats and weakens government control over digital systems.
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