The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has launched a comprehensive new cybersecurity strategy named “Cyber Shield” to protect the country’s financial sector against escalating digital threats. Announced on February 17, 2026, the initiative is part of the SBP’s broader Vision 2028 agenda, which aims to modernize financial infrastructure and strengthen resilience across banks and financial institutions.
According to SBP officials, the Cyber Shield strategy is designed to improve cybersecurity measures, enhance threat response capabilities, and ensure rapid recovery in the event of a cyber attack. The move comes in response to the rapid growth of digital banking and online payment systems in Pakistan, which has increased the vulnerability of financial networks to sophisticated cyber risks.
The strategy outlines five core priorities. These include bolstering the ability of financial institutions to withstand cyber incidents, improving governance and accountability in cybersecurity practices, and fostering greater cooperation and information sharing across the financial sector. In addition, the SBP plans to invest in the development of skilled cyber professionals and update security practices to address emerging threats in the digital landscape.
Officials noted that one of the major challenges facing Pakistan’s financial sector is a shortage of qualified cybersecurity talent, as many professionals have emigrated in search of better opportunities abroad. To counter this, the Cyber Shield strategy includes a focus on building local capacity and training a new generation of cybersecurity experts.
The SBP said the strategy will be implemented in phases up to 2030, with periodic reviews and adjustments to adapt to evolving risks. Bankers and industry analysts have welcomed the approach, saying it could significantly strengthen the security of Pakistan’s financial ecosystem and help maintain public confidence as digital financial services continue to expand.