ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s leading digital microfinance institution, Mobilink Bank, has achieved ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification, a globally recognised benchmark for Information Security Management Systems. The certification reflects the bank’s alignment with international best practices for safeguarding sensitive information and managing cyber risks in an increasingly digital financial ecosystem.
ISO/IEC 27001:2022 is awarded to organisations that demonstrate robust systems and controls for protecting information assets, including customer data, operational information and digital infrastructure. The standard focuses on a structured approach to information security through governance, risk assessment, continuous monitoring and improvement. By attaining this certification, Mobilink Bank has formally validated its information security framework against one of the most widely respected global standards.
The achievement comes at a time when digital banking adoption in Pakistan is accelerating, driven by increased smartphone usage, branchless banking models and the growing need for financial inclusion. As more customers rely on digital platforms for transactions, savings and financing, the security of personal and financial data has become a critical concern for both regulators and consumers.
Commenting on the milestone, Mustapha Lotia, Chief Information Security Officer at Mobilink Bank, said the certification reinforces the institution’s long-term commitment to protecting customer information and strengthening its cyber resilience. He noted that customers place a high level of trust in the bank with their data, making information security a core responsibility rather than a compliance exercise.
According to Lotia, achieving ISO/IEC 27001:2022 demonstrates Mobilink Bank’s focus on embedding global best practices in information security across its operations. He added that the certification supports the bank’s mission to deliver innovative, secure and reliable digital banking services while maintaining the highest standards of data protection for customers across Pakistan.
The ISO/IEC 27001:2022 framework requires organisations to establish, implement, maintain and continually improve an Information Security Management System. This includes identifying potential risks to information assets, implementing appropriate security controls, defining clear governance structures and ensuring ongoing compliance through regular audits and reviews. The updated 2022 version of the standard places greater emphasis on risk-based thinking, resilience and adaptability in response to evolving cyber threats.
For Mobilink Bank, the certification supports its broader objective of building a secure and trusted digital banking environment. As a digital microfinance bank, it serves a wide and diverse customer base, including individuals and small businesses that may have limited access to traditional banking services. Ensuring the confidentiality, integrity and availability of information is therefore central to maintaining confidence in digital financial services.
The certification also aligns with regulatory expectations around data protection and cybersecurity in Pakistan’s financial sector. Regulators have increasingly emphasised the need for banks and financial institutions to strengthen their cyber defences as digital transactions grow. By meeting international standards, Mobilink Bank positions itself as a proactive player in addressing these challenges rather than reacting to incidents after they occur.
In practical terms, the ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification enhances the bank’s ability to manage cyber risks, respond effectively to security incidents and minimise potential disruptions to services. It also provides assurance to partners, stakeholders and customers that the bank’s systems are designed and operated with security at their core.
The achievement is part of Mobilink Bank’s wider strategy to invest in technology, governance and risk management as it expands its digital footprint. Alongside product innovation and customer experience, information security remains a foundational pillar supporting sustainable growth in the digital finance space.
As Pakistan’s digital economy continues to evolve, certifications such as ISO/IEC 27001:2022 are increasingly seen as essential markers of institutional maturity and trustworthiness. Mobilink Bank’s attainment of this standard highlights its focus on long-term resilience and its commitment to delivering secure, technology-driven financial services to millions of users nationwide.
Follow the PakBanker Whatsapp Channel for updates across Pakistan’s banking ecosystem.