Technology

NTISB issues critical warning of increased cyber attacks in Pakistan

Published by

Staff Reporter

1 year ago

ISLAMABAD: The National Telecom and Information Technology Security Board (NTISB) has published a vital warning advising its users about the increasing risk of cyber attacks in Pakistan.

A new wave of cyber attacks has developed since then, where hackers are targeting personal and sensitive information, and browser extensions have emerged as a means to steal that data.

Through browser extensions, hackers can extract user credentials from social media platforms like Facebook and online banking websites. The NTISB has concerned itself with the dangers of 16 very often used extensions. AI-based applications such as ChatGPT-4 and Gemini for Chrome have been included as potentially harmful.

There are many free VPNs and dubious AI chatbots that are also mentioned as dubious. Avoid free or unverified browser extensions and VPNs, advises the NTISB, while assuring users that they can operate only verified and trusted browser extensions that go for updates routinely.

A well-updated licensed antivirus can further build a fulcrum against cybercrime. NTISB said that users must be vigilant all the time and opt for a safer alternative for using less appropriated extensions for preventing their data loss. Hackers could do it without protection as phishing campaigns and programs with dubious credibility offer a wide variety of ways to access sensitive information.

It’s advisable to be careful while using browser extensions, especially free or unverified ones. The NTISB advisory speaks to the dangers that could come from these extensions and what a user can do to protect their personal information.

By adhering to these NTISB recommendations while keeping themselves up-to-date with the latest threats, users can significantly lower their chances of becoming the next cyber-crime victim.

The National Cyber Emergency Response Team of Pakistan also provides valuable resources and guidance on how to stay safe online, including tips on how to avoid phishing scams and how to use VPN safely.

Staff Reporter