National CERT Issues High-Risk Warning Over Rising BlueLocker Ransomware Attacks
Cases of ransomware attacks in Pakistan are increasing at an alarming rate, with cybercriminals demanding digital ransom through malicious software. The National Cyber Emergency Response Team (National CERT) has issued a fresh high-risk advisory to warn institutions and the public about the growing threat.
According to the advisory, incidents involving the dangerous “BlueLocker” ransomware have surged, targeting organizations via infected files, phishing emails, hacked websites, and unverified platforms. This malware can disable antivirus systems, spread rapidly across networks, steal sensitive data, and cause permanent loss of important files—potentially halting entire business operations.
Primary Targets:
BlueLocker primarily affects Windows-based desktops, laptops, servers, networks, and cloud storage systems. Its severity level has been rated as extremely high.
Recommended Safety Measures:
National CERT has advised organizations to:
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Enable multi-factor authentication for all accounts.
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Implement advanced email filters for links and attachments.
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Keep shared drives and backups offline and secure.
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Train staff to spot suspicious emails and links.
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Avoid downloading files from unverified sources.
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Keep all system defenses up to date.
In case of an attack, institutions are urged to preserve forensic evidence for investigations and strengthen cybersecurity infrastructure to prevent future incidents.
Director General Dr. Haider Abbas has sent urgent warnings to 39 ministries and key national institutions, including the Cabinet Division, Interior Ministry, Foreign Affairs, Election Commission, FBR, PEMRA, NDMA, OGRA, and others, directing immediate steps to counter the threat.
Cybersecurity experts stress that proactive defense and staff awareness remain the strongest shields against ransomware infiltration.
