ISLAMABAD: Electronic devices and mobile phones, including iPhones manufactured in India, have been flagged as a serious threat to users in Pakistan and the country’s cybersecurity.
A letter issued by the Cabinet Division has alerted federal ministries, divisions, and provincial chief secretaries to the potential risks posed by these devices.
Government sources have raised concerns over heightened cybersecurity vulnerabilities stemming from geopolitical tensions with India. These risks include data monitoring, potential data theft, and the use of deceptive platforms and access points resembling legitimate services, such as Apple-style portals.
The sources warned that Indian-made devices could compromise Pakistani users’ data and pose a broader security threat. Additionally, the products may contain malware or spyware embedded in their hardware or software, which could facilitate tampering and unauthorized access.
The letter further highlighted risks of targeted cyber activities through data interception. Hackers may impersonate Apple support agents or service centers in India, using fake emails or messages to access sensitive information via compromised portals or websites.
To mitigate these risks, the letter advises purchasing Apple products only from certified resellers within Pakistan and ensuring device seals are intact at the time of purchase. It also stresses the importance of keeping Apple devices updated through official iOS updates.
Additional recommendations include using end-to-end encrypted communication services, setting strong passwords, installing antivirus applications, and relying solely on updates from Apple’s official channels. These measures aim to safeguard users and reduce vulnerabilities in Pakistan’s cybersecurity landscape.
