CERT urges citizens not to heed false information
Says people must avoid clicking dubious links, sharing unverified reports: Also asks them to restrict their access to different applications
The National Cyber Emergency Response Team (CERT) on Wednesday urged citizens to avoid spreading false information on social media in the wake of Indian aggression against Pakistan, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
National CERT DG Dr. Haider Abbas said that at a time when India had attacked Pakistan, there was a need to further beef up the national security and digital independence.
He further said that everybody must realize his or her responsibility to prevent the dissemination of false information.
Abbas added that not only was the CERT team monitoring the situation, but it was also taking steps to strengthen its digital systems.
In this connection, he went on to say, citizens were advised to avoid developing contacts with unknown people, besides avoiding clicking on links of unverified social media accounts and sending messages to unverified e-mail addresses.
Abbas urged the people to seek guidance from the concerned officials before opening any link, which appeared suspicious to them. “Seek information only through reliable sources,” he said, adding, “In order to receive updates on the evolving situation, rely on state-owned TV channels.”
The CERT DG also asked people not to pay heed to the rumours and baseless reports spread on WhatsApp and other social media platforms. “Also, restrict your access to different applications. Use only those apps, which are really necessary. And stay in touch with the CERT by keeping an eye on the latest updates and warnings.”
