Pakistan Dispels Rumors of ATM, Online Banking Shutdown Amid Cyberattack Claims

Amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, the National Cyber Emergency Response Team (NCERT) has firmly denied circulating rumors about a cyberattack leading to the shutdown of ATMs and online banking services.

In an official advisory, NCERT dismissed the claims as baseless, clarifying that no such cyberattack has occurred and all ATM and digital banking services remain fully functional.

The team confirmed that they, along with cybersecurity units of financial institutions, are actively monitoring the situation and remain on high alert due to concerns about potential cyber warfare.

The advisory specifically warned the public against falling for misinformation on social media, where false reports had recently suggested that digital banking had been disrupted. Reinforcing public trust, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) also confirmed that the entire banking system is operating normally.

Customers have been urged to remain vigilant, avoid sharing personal banking information, steer clear of unverified links, and only trust information from official or verified platforms to prevent fraud.

These reassurances come as regional tensions mount. According to official sources, Pakistan’s military has downed 35 Indian drones and five fighter jets following cross-border strikes that reportedly targeted civilians, resulting in over 30 deaths and 51 injuries in Pakistan.

Speaking at a joint press briefing with DG ISPR Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar declared Pakistan’s right to retaliate in response to what he described as “unlawful Indian aggression.” He emphasized Pakistan’s measured and mature approach, maintaining its responses within the bounds of international law and the UN Charter.

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