Government employees in Pakistan have been directed to use only approved virtual private networks (VPNs) when accessing official systems remotely, according to cybersecurity guidance issued by the National Cyber Emergency Response Team (National CERT).
The directive aims to strengthen the security of government networks and reduce the risk of cyberattacks. Officials have been warned that exposing government services directly to the internet could create security vulnerabilities and increase the chances of unauthorized access.
According to the National Cybersecurity Handbook 2026–27, government-provided VPNs establish secure connections for employees who need to access official systems from outside their workplaces. These connections are designed to help protect sensitive information against unauthorized access and interception during remote sessions.
The guidance makes clear that government employees should not use just any VPN service for official work. Instead, staff must use VPN solutions approved by their respective departments to ensure that remote access follows established cybersecurity requirements.
VPN technology creates an encrypted connection between a user’s device and a network. In government environments, this can help employees securely access internal systems while working remotely, provided the VPN and associated security controls are configured correctly.
However, a VPN alone cannot guarantee complete protection against cyber threats. Weak passwords, compromised devices, phishing attacks and poor security practices can still expose government accounts and information to risk.
The handbook therefore emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong login credentials alongside using approved remote-access services. Employees are expected to follow their departments’ security procedures when connecting to official systems.
Another key instruction is to end remote-access sessions immediately after completing official tasks. Closing these sessions helps reduce the time an account or connection remains active when it is no longer required.
The guidance also addresses technical problems that may occur during remote access. Government employees have been advised to contact their IT or cybersecurity teams if VPN connections become unstable or repeatedly disconnect.
Repeated connection failures should not be ignored, particularly when employees are handling sensitive government information. Departmental technical teams can investigate potential network problems, configuration issues or other security concerns and provide appropriate support.
The warning against exposing government services directly to the internet highlights a broader cybersecurity challenge facing public institutions. Systems that are accessible online without suitable access controls may become targets for attackers attempting to exploit software weaknesses or steal login credentials.
Restricting remote access through approved channels can help departments apply consistent security policies, monitor connections and limit access to authorized users. The effectiveness of these measures, however, depends on proper implementation, regular maintenance and employee compliance.
For government departments, the guidance also reinforces the need for staff training and clear internal procedures. Employees should understand which devices and VPN services are permitted, how to protect their credentials and whom to contact when technical or security problems arise.
The instructions reflect the growing importance of cybersecurity as public institutions rely increasingly on digital systems and remote working arrangements. Protecting official networks requires a combination of secure technology, responsible employee behaviour and effective departmental oversight.
Under the stated guidance, government employees can continue accessing official systems remotely, but they must use department-approved VPN services and follow the relevant security procedures. The objective is to support remote work while reducing the risks associated with unauthorized access and insecure internet connections.