Fortinet, a global leader in cybersecurity solutions, organized Fortinet Security Day in Islamabad, bringing together government representatives, industry stakeholders, and technology partners to discuss the evolving digital security landscape in Pakistan.
The event featured a series of expert-led sessions, panel discussions, and knowledge-sharing opportunities, with participation from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), National Computer Emergency Response Team (NCERT), the banking sector, and representatives from industrial organizations. Discussions centered on advancing national preparedness against emerging cyber threats and strengthening cooperation across sectors to build a digitally secure Pakistan.
Held at Serena Hotel, the gathering was attended by senior officials, cybersecurity professionals, and representatives from key technology and distribution partners, including Wateen Telecom Limited, CNS Engineering, Inara Technologies, Allied Business Solutions, Oculus Systems, Premier, Awan Distribution, Ingram Micro, and Online Computer Technologies LLC.
During the event, Fortinet proposed organizing a national-level cyber drill aimed at evaluating organizational readiness in responding to complex cyberattacks. The initiative was welcomed by representatives of PTA and other authorities, who expressed interest in integrating such exercises into national-level preparedness frameworks.
Dr. Haider, alongside PTA officials, noted that the authority has already taken steps toward structured cybersecurity awareness. In 2024, PTA launched its first telecom sector-wide cybersecurity week, which included simulations such as phishing and social engineering attacks, ethical hacking exercises targeting personal devices, as well as awareness-building through short training sessions, video messages, and infographics. The objective was to prepare employees and customers to recognize and respond effectively to digital threats.
Building on that momentum, PTA announced plans to conduct this year’s cybersecurity week in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and telecom operators. Scheduled for the last week of November, the initiative aims to scale up cybersecurity exercises and outreach efforts. PTA also invited participation from leading technology vendors and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), such as Fortinet, Huawei, Nokia, Cisco, CTM360, Group-IB, and Kaspersky, to strengthen the program’s impact.
The Fortinet Security Day emphasized that collaboration between regulators, service providers, and private-sector technology firms is essential to improving cyber resilience in Pakistan. With cyberattacks becoming increasingly sophisticated, initiatives such as national drills and sector-wide awareness campaigns are expected to play a critical role in shaping the country’s security posture.
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