The federal government has announced a strict ban on the use of personal and private email accounts for official communication, marking a significant step toward improving cybersecurity and protecting sensitive state information. The policy applies to all public sector organizations, including major institutions such as the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
Official Communication Rules Tightened
A formal circular has been issued to government departments, reminding them of earlier instructions from the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT). The directive makes it mandatory for all officers and staff to stop using non-government email services for official correspondence with immediate effect.
The move comes after authorities observed continued reliance on private platforms like Gmail, Yahoo, and Hotmail for sharing official files, reports, and confidential data, despite repeated advisories against the practice.
Cybersecurity and National Risk Concerns
According to the ministry, using private email services for government work exposes official data to serious security threats. These platforms operate outside the government’s protected digital framework and are more susceptible to cyberattacks, information leaks, and unauthorized access.
The National Telecommunication and Information Technology Security Board (NTISB) has repeatedly warned that private email servers cannot guarantee the level of security required for handling sensitive government information, making their use a potential risk to national interests.
Mandatory Shift to Government Email Systems
Under the new instructions, all official communication—including letters, policy documents, internal memos, and inter-departmental exchanges—must be conducted solely through officially registered government email accounts.
Administrative secretaries and departmental heads have been directed to ensure full implementation of the policy and to communicate the instructions to all offices under their supervision.
Accountability for Non-Compliance
The government has also made it clear that any data breach or security incident resulting from the use of unauthorized email accounts will be the direct responsibility of the concerned officer or department. This warning signals a firm stance and zero tolerance for violations.
Strengthening Digital Discipline
This policy forms part of the government’s broader push to strengthen digital discipline, safeguard confidential information, and modernize governance systems. By restricting official correspondence to secure government-managed email platforms, authorities aim to reduce cyber risks and ensure greater accountability across the public sector.