ZTBL, Wateen Launch Advanced Security Operations Center to Protect Customer Data

Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL), Pakistan’s leading agricultural financing bank, has partnered with Wateen, a pioneer in Pakistan’s ICT sector and a recognized leader in managed cybersecurity services. This strategic collaboration aims to establish a state-of-the-art Security Operations Center (SOC) to protect critical digital infrastructure and safeguard the data of over half a million ZTBL customers.
The partnership was formalized with the signing of an agreement between Tahir Yaqoob Bhatti, President and CEO of ZTBL, and Adil Rashid, CEO of Wateen, with senior representatives from both organizations in attendance. ZTBL has been at the forefront of digital innovation, offering a wide range of modern banking services, including internet banking, WhatsApp banking, mobile banking, ATM services, on-the-go digital services through MCO tablet applications, digital onboarding, RAAST integration, state-of-the-art customer support centers, and USSD-based banking.
Under this partnership, Wateen will manage ZTBL’s cybersecurity operations, providing round-the-clock monitoring, advanced threat detection, and rapid incident response to ensure the security of the bank’s digital assets. Wateen will also enhance ZTBL’s overall cybersecurity measures, protecting it from evolving cyber threats. ZTBL’s President and CEO, Tahir Yaqoob Bhatti, emphasized, “At ZTBL, safeguarding our customers’ trust and securing their data are our top priorities. With our broad range of digital banking services and this partnership with Wateen, we are strengthening our commitment to maintaining the highest cybersecurity standards while continuing to empower Pakistan’s agriculture sector.”
Adil Rashid, CEO of Wateen, highlighted the importance of the partnership, saying, “We are proud to collaborate with ZTBL to strengthen their cybersecurity framework. As cyber threats grow more sophisticated, securing the financial sector is more crucial than ever. Our goal is to protect ZTBL’s critical data, ensuring its operations remain resilient, while setting a higher standard for cybersecurity across the industry.”
Wateen’s expertise in banking regulations and cybersecurity makes it the ideal partner for financial institutions like ZTBL. The new SOC will incorporate advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and real-time threat intelligence, ensuring the security of ZTBL’s IT infrastructure against emerging threats. The partnership also complies with key regulatory standards, including those set by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), the National Cyber Security Policy 2021, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), PCI DSS, and ISO 27001. This reinforces ZTBL’s reputation as a secure and compliant financial institution.
Through this collaboration, Wateen will provide comprehensive, continuous surveillance of ZTBL’s IT systems, proactively protecting against cyber threats and strengthening customer trust. This initiative underscores Wateen’s leadership in managed cybersecurity and ZTBL’s commitment to data integrity and security.n