Islamabad, Pakistan – National Cyber Emergency Response Team (National CERT) conducted an awareness session on cybersecurity and responsible use of social media at the Islamic Research Institute of the International Islamic University Islamabad (IIUI). The session, led by Khwaja Mansoor, Information Security Auditor at National CERT, was attended by postdoctoral fellows and research scholars and focused on equipping participants with knowledge and skills essential for safeguarding their digital presence and institutional information.
The program emphasized key aspects of digital safety and resilience. Participants were introduced to best practices for protecting personal and institutional data, recognizing phishing attempts, and understanding evolving cyber threats relevant to academia and professional environments. The session also covered the ethical and responsible use of social media platforms, highlighting how digital behavior impacts both individuals and organizations. In addition, attendees gained insights into Pakistan’s legal and policy frameworks surrounding cyber activities, reinforcing the need for compliance and accountability in all online interactions.
Through real-life examples and case studies, Khwaja Mansoor illustrated the growing significance of cybersecurity in academic and research institutions, where sensitive data and intellectual property are frequently at risk. He underscored the importance of adopting proactive measures such as strong authentication practices, regular system updates, and heightened awareness of social engineering tactics. Participants were encouraged to embed cybersecurity principles into their daily routines to mitigate risks and strengthen digital resilience within their organizations.
The event concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment, enabling scholars to raise specific concerns and receive tailored guidance from National CERT experts. This exchange helped clarify technical and policy-related issues while encouraging attendees to develop their own internal protocols for data protection and safe online engagement. National CERT expressed appreciation to the Islamic Research Institute, IIUI, for hosting the session and reiterated its commitment to fostering a secure and responsible digital environment across Pakistan. It continues to collaborate with academic and professional institutions to build capacity, raise awareness, and strengthen the national response to evolving cyber threats.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
