Archives for March 2026

March 12, 2026 - Comments Off on Senators Raise Security Concerns Over Islamabad Safe City Surveillance System

Senators Raise Security Concerns Over Islamabad Safe City Surveillance System

Members of Pakistan’s Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology raised concerns about the security of Islamabad’s Safe City surveillance system, questioning whether software used in the system could have links to Israeli technology companies. Lawmakers from PML-N and JUI-P warned that potential vulnerabilities in the surveillance infrastructure could expose sensitive information, including VVIP movements. Officials from the Safe City project assured the committee that the system is protected by multiple cybersecurity safeguards, including firewalls, secure data servers, and regular technical audits. The committee directed authorities to provide a detailed list of all software used in the surveillance system and requested further technical briefings to assess potential risks.

March 12, 2026 - Comments Off on Data Centres Emerging as New Targets in Modern Warfare, Experts Warn

Data Centres Emerging as New Targets in Modern Warfare, Experts Warn

Experts have warned that data centres, critical facilities powering cloud services, banking applications, and artificial intelligence platforms, are emerging as potential targets in modern warfare following reported drone strikes during the ongoing Iran conflict. Amazon confirmed that two of its data centres in the United Arab Emirates were struck by drones on March 1, while another facility in Bahrain was damaged by debris from a nearby attack. Analysts say such incidents may represent some of the first known physical attacks on data infrastructure, highlighting the growing strategic importance of data centres as national-level AI and digital infrastructure. Experts caution that targeting these facilities could disrupt civilian services and cloud systems, raising concerns about the security of digital infrastructure in conflict zones.

March 11, 2026 - Comments Off on US Military Confirms Use of Advanced AI Tools in War Against Iran

US Military Confirms Use of Advanced AI Tools in War Against Iran

The United States military confirmed that it is using advanced artificial intelligence tools during the ongoing conflict with Iran to process large volumes of battlefield data and support military decision-making. US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper said AI systems help analysts quickly sift through intelligence and operational data, allowing commanders to make faster strategic decisions. While AI assists in analysing information, Cooper emphasized that human operators remain responsible for final targeting decisions. The announcement comes amid growing concerns from rights groups and experts about the ethical implications and potential risks associated with the increasing use of AI technologies in modern warfare. 

March 11, 2026 - Comments Off on Iran-Linked Hackers Accused of Breaching Israeli Security Cameras for Espionage

Iran-Linked Hackers Accused of Breaching Israeli Security Cameras for Espionage

Israel’s National Cyber Directorate warned that Iran-linked hackers have breached dozens of Israeli security cameras since the start of the Middle East conflict, potentially using the footage for espionage and operational intelligence. Authorities urged camera owners to update software and change passwords to prevent further security risks. Cybersecurity experts say hackers may be using compromised cameras to assess damage from attacks or monitor targeted locations and individuals. The incident reflects the growing role of cyber operations alongside conventional warfare, as Iran and Israel continue to engage in a long-running digital conflict that has intensified since the latest military escalation on February 28.

 

March 10, 2026 - Comments Off on Pakistan Concludes 5G Spectrum Auction, Raising $507 Million

Pakistan Concludes 5G Spectrum Auction, Raising $507 Million

Pakistan completed its long-awaited 5G spectrum auction in Islamabad, selling 480 megahertz of spectrum for approximately $507 million after three rounds of bidding. Telecom operators Zong, Jazz, and Ufone competed heavily for key 5G frequency bands, particularly the 2600 MHz band, with Jazz acquiring 190 MHz, Ufone 180 MHz, and Zong 110 MHz overall. Officials said the auction would expand digital infrastructure and enable faster connectivity, with Jazz announcing 5G test trials across 180 towers. The government described the auction as a major step toward improving internet quality, expanding 4G coverage, and enabling emerging technologies such as AI, blockchain, and Web3 in Pakistan’s digital economy.

March 10, 2026 - Comments Off on Law Minister Urges Media Caution on Foreign Policy Commentary Amid Middle East Tensions

Law Minister Urges Media Caution on Foreign Policy Commentary Amid Middle East Tensions

Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar urged media outlets and online commentators to exercise caution when discussing Pakistan’s foreign policy amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Speaking at a press conference alongside Information Minister Ataullah Tarar and Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudry, he noted that certain analyses and commentary had caused diplomatic “unease” among friendly countries. The minister emphasized that while Article 19 of Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, it is subject to reasonable restrictions concerning national security, defence, and relations with foreign states. Officials also cautioned content creators and media professionals against speculative or sensational commentary on Pakistan’s foreign policy during the ongoing regional conflict.

March 10, 2026 - Comments Off on Bahrain Arrests Six Individuals Over Social Media Posts Linked to Iran Conflict

Bahrain Arrests Six Individuals Over Social Media Posts Linked to Iran Conflict

Bahrain’s Interior Ministry announced the arrest of six individuals,  including five Pakistanis and one Bangladeshi for allegedly filming, publishing, and reposting videos related to the effects of Iranian attacks amid the ongoing regional conflict. Authorities stated that the suspects shared videos through their social media accounts that allegedly expressed sympathy for hostile acts and contributed to spreading fear and misleading public opinion. According to the ministry, legal proceedings have been initiated and the individuals have been referred to public prosecution. The government also urged the public to rely on official sources and refrain from sharing unverified content online during the ongoing conflict.

March 8, 2026 - Comments Off on Sindh Launches Pakistan’s First Digital Vehicle Insurance Monitoring System

Sindh Launches Pakistan’s First Digital Vehicle Insurance Monitoring System

The Sindh government has introduced Pakistan’s first digital vehicle insurance monitoring system and made third-party insurance mandatory for all vehicles in the province. Under the new rules, vehicles without valid insurance will not be registered, and token tax will not be collected. The law, introduced through amendments to the Sindh Motor Vehicle Ordinance 2025, provides financial compensation for accident victims, including Rs700,000 for families of those killed in traffic accidents and Rs500,000 for individuals left disabled. Officials say the digital system will improve transparency, prevent fake insurance policies, and ensure financial protection for victims of road accidents. 

March 5, 2026 - Comments Off on Peshawar Safe City project inaugurated

Peshawar Safe City project inaugurated

Peshawar’s long delayed Safe City project was finally inaugurated after 18 years by the chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Conceived in 2008 and costing a little over Rs. 2 billion, the project introduces an advanced urban surveillance system designed to improve security and law enforcement in the city. Using AI-powered surveillance cameras and facial recognition software, the project will help police automatically detect suspicious vehicles and/or suspected individuals in real-time. Authorities have said that the system will also connect with existing cameras along Bus Rapid Transit routes and other sensitive areas.   

March 5, 2026 - Comments Off on IHC judge fears negative outcome from livestreaming court cases

IHC judge fears negative outcome from livestreaming court cases

A judge from Islamabad High Court has observed “very negative outcomes” from the live streaming of certain court proceedings, and raises concerns over the impact of broadcasting judicial hearings. These remarks were made when while hearing a petition in court, Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani noticed a person recording the hearing on their mobile phone, an act which is prohibited under Pakistani court rules. He further noted that when notable cases from superior courts are broadcast live, such as the PTI party symbol case, they are prone to generating political controversy and discourse.