Pakistan National Cyber Emergency Response Team has secured Operational Membership of Asia Pacific Computer Emergency Response Team following formal approval from its Steering Committee. The inclusion places Pakistan within a regional platform that connects leading Computer Emergency Response Teams and Computer Security Incident Response Teams across Asia Pacific, reinforcing the country’s commitment to structured cybersecurity collaboration and internationally aligned response practices.
APCERT functions as a cooperative network focused on coordinated incident handling, cross border threat intelligence exchange, joint cyber exercises, and capacity development initiatives among member states. By attaining operational membership, Pakistan National CERT will now take part in collaborative responses to cross jurisdiction cyber incidents, technical drills, and structured information sharing mechanisms designed to improve readiness against evolving digital threats. The development strengthens Pakistan’s integration into regional cybersecurity frameworks at a time when digital infrastructure, online services, and interconnected systems require closer coordination among national response bodies.
National CERT, also known as PKCERT, was formally announced by Government of Pakistan on March 11, 2024 after approval of CERT Rules 2023. It serves as the central authority responsible for safeguarding national cyberspace and protecting critical infrastructure from large scale cyber threats. Its mandate includes incident management support, vulnerability assessments, security audits of critical sectors, digital forensics, malware analysis, issuance of cybersecurity advisories, and delivery of multi tier capacity building programs. The organization has also launched initiatives such as CyberNest along with internship and research fellowship programs aimed at strengthening domestic expertise in cybersecurity and digital risk management.
Beyond its federal scope, PKCERT oversees coordination and integration of provincial and sectoral CERTs to ensure a unified national response structure. This includes National Telecom CERT operated by PTA, which plays a role in safeguarding telecom infrastructure and managing sector specific incidents. Through APCERT membership, Pakistan will enhance collaboration not only at regional level but also across its internal cybersecurity ecosystem by aligning procedures, response protocols, and intelligence sharing standards with established international practices. Officials view the membership as an institutional milestone that broadens Pakistan’s participation in collective cyber defense efforts, strengthens resilience against cross border threats, and deepens partnerships with Asia Pacific counterparts working to maintain a secure and stable digital environment.
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