Syed Alay Raza, CISO and Group Head of Information Security at Raqami Islamic Digital Bank, has been announced as the second panelist for the upcoming online discussion titled “Phishing in 2026: What’s Changed, and What Hasn’t.” The session will focus on the evolving nature of phishing threats, their impact on financial institutions and the importance of building stronger security awareness among employees.
With more than two decades of experience in cybersecurity and information security leadership, Syed Alay Raza brings extensive industry knowledge to the discussion. Before joining Raqami Islamic Digital Bank, he served as CISO of National Bank of Pakistan, where he led security governance initiatives for an institution managing assets valued at $20.2 billion. His experience includes working across banking, technology and international development projects, providing insights into cybersecurity challenges across multiple sectors. Throughout his professional career, Syed Alay Raza has worked with organizations including Systems Limited, Mazars across the Asia Pacific region and World Bank projects in Pakistan, Indonesia and Afghanistan. His background covers information security governance, risk management and strategies for protecting organizations against cyber threats. His experience in securing financial institutions positions him to provide perspectives on how attackers approach sensitive banking environments and how organizations can strengthen their defenses.
During the panel discussion, Syed Alay Raza will share insights from Pakistan’s financial and sensitive sectors, focusing on the current challenges faced by institutions and the role of employees in maintaining security. The session will explore how phishing techniques continue to evolve, what remains consistent in attack methods and how organizations can develop a security-focused workforce that can better identify and respond to potential threats. The online event, “Phishing in 2026: What’s Changed, and What Hasn’t,” is scheduled for Thursday, 22 October, at 9:00 PM PKT. The discussion will provide an opportunity for cybersecurity professionals, financial sector representatives and technology stakeholders to learn from industry experts about changing phishing trends and security practices.
Organizers have announced that seats for the session are limited and interested participants are encouraged to register in advance. The event aims to bring together cybersecurity leaders and professionals to discuss practical approaches for reducing phishing risks and improving organizational readiness against social engineering attacks. Through participation from experienced security leaders such as Syed Alay Raza, the panel will highlight the continued importance of cybersecurity awareness, risk management and employee education in protecting organizations from digital threats. As phishing remains one of the common methods used to target businesses and financial institutions, discussions around prevention and preparedness continue to play an important role in strengthening digital security.
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