Cabinet Division warns of data theft via deceptive websites
Indian-made cell phones declared a security threat to Pakistan. The Indian-made electronic devices and mobile phones including iPhones have been declared a threat to Pakistan’s cybersecurity, the Cabinet Division said in a letter to federal ministries, divisions, and chief secretaries of all provinces.
In a letter, the Cabinet Division cautioned about increasing cybersecurity risks due to Indian interference in Pakistan’s critical information systems owing to geopolitical tensions with the neighboring country.
According to the reports, the Cabinet Division has raised concerns regarding sensitive data being stolen through deceptive websites and Apple-style portals.
“Indian-made products and devices can become security concerns for Pakistan and there is a potential risk of data theft of Pakistani consumers through these products and the presence of malware viruses,” the letter added.
According to sources, the letter also expressed the risk of the presence of viruses along with hardware or software in the manufacture of products, and the risk of possible tampering, malware, or spyware viruses.
Furthermore, it said that Indian products can lead to targeted cyber activities through data interception. Hackers can impersonate Apple support agents or service centres in India, and access portals and websites through fake emails or messages.
The letter recommends purchasing Apple products in Pakistan from certified resellers, checking the seals of the devices at the time of purchase, and keeping Apple devices updated through the iPhone operating system.
The letter recommends using end-to-end encrypted services for communication, strong passwords, and antivirus applications, as well as getting updates from Apple’s official channels.
