The National Computer Emergency Response Team (nCERT) has addressed and debunked recent rumors circulating on social media about a nationwide shutdown of ATMs and online banking apps in Pakistan. The advisory issued today by the national CERT reassures the public that there have been no disruptions to banking infrastructure or any credible cyber threats targeting ATMs and online banking services.
The advisory was prompted by a viral message that had been spreading rapidly across various social media platforms. The message falsely claimed that ATMs across Pakistan would be shut down for two to three days due to a supposed ransomware cyber-attack. It further warned people against performing any online transactions during this period, and even advised against opening a particular video called “Dance of the Hillary,” which it claimed was a virus capable of formatting mobile devices.
The alarming nature of this message caused widespread panic among the public, with many individuals expressing concern about the safety of their financial assets. However, the national CERT has clarified that these claims are baseless and have no grounding in reality.
In its advisory, the national CERT emphasized that all banking services, including ATMs and online banking, are functioning normally. There have been no credible reports of cyber threats or disruptions to banking infrastructure within Pakistan. The team urged the public not to fall prey to such misleading information, which only serves to create unnecessary panic and confusion.
The national CERT has also warned individuals against sharing unverified information on social media, as it can contribute to the spread of false rumors. The organization highlighted the importance of relying on official sources for accurate information, particularly when it comes to matters related to financial security and cybersecurity.
In addition to debunking the rumors, the national CERT took the opportunity to remind the public of best practices for online banking security. The team advised users to log out of their banking apps after use and to regularly monitor their bank statements for any suspicious transactions. This proactive approach can help individuals detect any unauthorized activity early on and take appropriate action to secure their accounts.
PakCERT, another cybersecurity body in Pakistan, also issued a reminder to users to keep their ATM card PINs, One-Time Passwords (OTPs), and online banking passwords confidential. It is crucial to never share this information with anyone, as doing so could compromise the security of one’s financial accounts.
The incident highlights the importance of responsible information sharing, especially in the digital age where misinformation can spread rapidly. The national CERT’s advisory serves as a reminder that not all information circulating online is accurate, and that it is essential to verify facts before passing them on to others.
As Pakistan continues to develop its digital infrastructure, the role of organizations like the national CERT becomes increasingly important in maintaining public trust and ensuring the security of online services. By staying informed and following best practices for cybersecurity, individuals can help protect themselves and others from the potential threats posed by misinformation and cybercrime.
