National Data at Risk: PTA Chief Warns of Massive Cyber Breach, Urges Urgent Reforms

ISLAMABAD: In a startling revelation, Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Hafeezur Naeem, has confirmed that Pakistan’s entire digital data is stored on foreign servers, making it highly vulnerable to cyber theft and misuse. The disclosure was made during a high-level meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology, raising alarms about the country’s digital security.

The PTA chairman shocked lawmakers by revealing that his own SIM card data has been circulating on the dark web since 2022. Even more concerning, he disclosed that personal data of citizens who applied for Hajj has also been compromised and is now reportedly available on illicit online platforms.

“This is a national security issue. We urgently need a National Data Centre to ensure the safety and sovereignty of Pakistan’s digital infrastructure,” said Naeem. He confirmed that the Ministry of Interior and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) are actively investigating the breach.

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Senator Afnanullah, a member of the committee, described the situation as a full-blown crisis. “Data theft has become a multi-billion rupee industry in Pakistan. Powerful lobbies are actively working to block the proposed Data Protection Bill to safeguard their interests,” he alleged.

The committee’s Chairperson, Senator Palwasha Khan, expressed serious concern over the implications of the breach. She shared a personal experience of receiving suspicious calls about a credit card bill from unknown numbers—further evidence that sensitive citizen data is being exploited.

“What kind of ‘Digital Pakistan’ are we envisioning when our most basic digital rights and security are under threat?” she questioned, urging the government to immediately pass the Data Protection Bill and take decisive action against those obstructing its implementation.

Adding to the concerns, the PTA Chairman issued a public warning:

“Do not accept mobile phones as gifts. Many of these devices come with built-in surveillance bugs that can monitor calls and apps like WhatsApp.”

Officials from the Ministry of IT confirmed that a comprehensive Data Protection Bill has been drafted and is currently undergoing security vetting and stakeholder consultations. Additionally, the ministry is developing a local alternative to WhatsApp, aimed at enhancing privacy and reducing reliance on foreign platforms.