By Hafiz Rahat Usama 
In a significant move to bolster national cybersecurity, the Government of Pakistan has officially designated the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) as Critical Information Infrastructures (CIIs). This decision underscores the importance of safeguarding key digital assets that are vital for the country’s economic and social well-being.
What Are Critical Information Infrastructures?
Critical Information Infrastructures refer to assets, networks, systems, processes, information, and functions essential to the nation. The incapacitation or destruction of these elements would significantly impact national security and the economic and social well-being of citizens. CIIs are characterized by essential interdependencies and critical information flows. Under the national cybersecurity policy, the National Computer Emergency Response Team (NCERT) defines CII as any computer system or network vital for national security or the economic and social well-being of citizens.
FBR’s Infrastructure Recognized as Critical
On January 7, 2025, the Federal Cabinet declared the infrastructure of the Federal Board of Revenue as critical under the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016. This classification aims to protect the board’s sensitive data from cyber-attacks, including hacking or any kind of illegal intervention. The Cabinet’s approval emphasizes the need to safeguard taxpayer information and ensure the integrity of the nation’s financial systems.
In line with this initiative, the FBR inaugurated a state-of-the-art Security Operations Center (SOC) at its headquarters in Islamabad. The SOC is designed for the prevention, detection, and incident response against cybersecurity attacks on the FBR IT network. Operational 24/7, it employs world-leading automated solutions and tools for cybersecurity incident monitoring, malware and ransomware attacks inspection, data backup/recovery solutions, software vulnerabilities scanning, IT infrastructure penetration testing, and performance monitoring. This robust defense-in-depth architecture significantly enhances the security posture of FBR’s data and IT network.
NADRA’s Role in National Security
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of national identification systems. Recognizing its importance, NADRA, along with NADRA Technologies Limited (NTL) and the National Cyber Emergency Response Team (PKCERT), signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to exchange cybersecurity threat intelligence and relevant data. This collaboration aims to enhance their security posture by sharing information on vulnerabilities, threats, and incidents, and coordinating responses to cybersecurity incidents affecting national infrastructure. The partnership also includes joint investigations, analyses of cybersecurity incidents, and the development of best practices for effective cybersecurity management.
Legal Implications Under PECA 2016
The classification of FBR and NADRA’s infrastructures as Critical Information Infrastructures carries significant legal implications under the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016. Unauthorized access, copying, or interference with information systems or data categorized as “Critical Infrastructure” can result in severe legal consequences, including imprisonment, fines, or both. This stringent legal framework serves as a deterrent against cyber-attacks and unauthorized access to sensitive data.
Broader Implications for National Cybersecurity
The designation of FBR and NADRA as CIIs reflects Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its cybersecurity framework. It highlights the government’s recognition of the critical role that digital infrastructure plays in national security and economic stability. By implementing robust cybersecurity measures and fostering collaboration among key institutions, Pakistan aims to create a safer and more secure digital environment.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the protection of Critical Information Infrastructures will remain a top priority for Pakistan. The proactive steps taken by FBR and NADRA set a precedent for other institutions to follow in safeguarding their digital assets against emerging cyber threats.
For more information on cybersecurity initiatives and guidelines, visit the official websites of the Federal Board of Revenue and the National Database and Registration Authority.