NCERT Alerts Banks and Utilities to AI-Enabled Cyber Threats

ISLAMABAD: The National Cyber Emergency Response Team (NCERT) has issued a warning regarding the rising threat of artificial intelligence (AI) and automated bots being utilized for credential-based and coordinated cyberattacks, particularly targeting critical infrastructure and financial services.

In an advisory released on November 5, NCERT noted a concerning trend in the use of AI, automated bots, botnets, and agentic tools that enhance the capabilities of cybercriminals. These technologies enable attackers to automate reconnaissance, identify vulnerabilities, and execute sophisticated cyberattacks at an unprecedented scale and speed.

This advisory is crucial for all sectors, but it emphasizes the heightened risk for financial services and operational technology (OT) sectors. Banks are specifically warned about potential attacks on core banking systems, digital banking platforms, and payment systems, which could disrupt services and compromise sensitive customer data.

As organizations assess their cybersecurity measures, NCERT urges immediate action to bolster defenses against these evolving threats. Stakeholders are encouraged to implement robust security protocols and remain vigilant as the landscape of cyber threats continues to evolve.