Pakistan’s media and broadcasting sector is entering a new phase of cybersecurity compliance after Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) made third party Information Technology and Information Security audits, along with Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT), mandatory for all licensed broadcasters. The directive places increased emphasis on strengthening the cyber resilience of broadcasting organizations and ensuring that critical media infrastructure is protected against evolving digital threats.
The new compliance requirement is expected to encourage broadcasters across the country to assess the security posture of their technology environments and implement measures that can identify and address vulnerabilities before they are exploited. Third party IT and Information Security audits are increasingly becoming an essential component of risk management strategies, particularly for sectors that rely heavily on digital infrastructure and uninterrupted operations. By making these assessments mandatory, PEMRA is pushing broadcasters to adopt more structured cybersecurity practices and align with established security standards to protect sensitive information, operational systems, and communication networks.
Amid the implementation of the new requirements, cybersecurity firm Risk Associates has positioned itself as a service provider for organizations seeking to meet PEMRA’s compliance obligations. The company states that it holds NCERT CAT 1 certification, a designation that places it among the country’s top classified cybersecurity organizations. Risk Associates also notes that it is a PEMRA endorsed auditor for broadcast sector compliance and offers comprehensive IT and Information Security audits tailored to the unique operational needs of broadcasting organizations. In addition, the company provides Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing services conducted by certified cybersecurity professionals to help organizations identify weaknesses in their systems and improve their overall security posture.
Risk Associates further highlighted its experience in securing critical national infrastructure and emphasized the importance of addressing compliance requirements before approaching regulatory deadlines. As cyber threats continue to target media organizations and essential services around the world, the introduction of mandatory security assessments by PEMRA underscores the growing need for stronger cyber governance across Pakistan’s broadcasting industry. The regulatory move also reflects a broader trend toward enhanced cybersecurity oversight in sectors considered vital to national operations, with organizations increasingly required to demonstrate their ability to manage risks and protect digital assets through independent assessments and continuous security improvement initiatives.
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