NIBAF Pakistan organized a comprehensive and interactive cyber security awareness session on November 21, 2025, targeting the growing need for digital protection across the financial sector. Held face-to-face at the NIBAF Karachi Campus, the session brought together officers from the State Bank of Pakistan and NIBAF, underscoring the importance of developing a strong, informed workforce capable of responding to emerging cyber threats. As the banking sector becomes increasingly digital, the session aimed to build essential knowledge among professionals to safeguard sensitive systems and improve response readiness.
The training was conducted by Ms. Mehwish Enam, who led participants through a range of discussions, demonstrations, and scenario-based activities designed to highlight how cyber threats evolve and why financial institutions remain at heightened risk. Ms. Enam explained that cyber security is no longer a specialized concern but a shared responsibility across every department within a bank. From phishing attempts to credential theft and ransomware attacks, she detailed how attackers exploit human behavior and system weaknesses to infiltrate digital infrastructures.
Throughout the session, participants examined real-world cases of cyber breaches in the global financial sector, enabling them to understand the operational and reputational risks institutions face when security protocols are not fully maintained. Practical exercises allowed attendees to simulate threat detection, evaluate suspicious activity, and identify weaknesses in routine digital practices. This hands-on approach helped reinforce key concepts such as safeguarding digital identities, implementing strong password behaviors, securing devices, and recognizing social engineering attempts.
Ms. Enam also emphasized the importance of establishing an internal culture that supports cyber vigilance. She noted that even the most advanced technological defenses can be compromised if employees are not consistently trained to identify risks or follow security protocols. As digital banking continues to expand, she highlighted how financial institutions must update their cyber preparedness strategies to keep pace with increasingly sophisticated cybercrime operations targeting the sector.
The session created an environment that encouraged open dialogue among participants, enabling SBP and NIBAF officers to share personal experiences, departmental challenges, and concerns about evolving digital risks. Many attendees expressed that the training enabled them to reconsider daily work habits and recognize the critical role each individual plays in maintaining systemic digital integrity. The collaborative nature of the session also fostered a better understanding of institution-wide coordination, especially in responding to incidents that may affect cross-functional systems.
NIBAF Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to supporting capacity-building initiatives that advance digital resilience in the financial industry. The organization highlighted that cybersecurity training is not a one-time activity but an ongoing need as threats continually evolve and institutions increase their reliance on digital technologies. Programs such as this are aimed at elevating awareness, improving professional readiness, and strengthening the overall security posture of Pakistan’s financial ecosystem.
As financial institutions continue to modernize, ensuring that professionals possess the skills and awareness needed to navigate digital risks becomes central to operational stability. The cyber security session marked a significant contribution to this effort, equipping participants with actionable knowledge and reinforcing the importance of vigilance in preserving trust, security, and long-term resilience.
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