Islamabad – June 16, 2026: HBL Microfinance Bank (HBL MfB) has successfully achieved PCI DSS v4.0.1 certification following a comprehensive assessment conducted by Risk Associates, a globally recognised PCI Qualified Security Assessor (QSA). The certification reflects the Bank’s continued commitment to safeguarding cardholder data and maintaining robust security controls across its payment ecosystem.
The assessment evaluated HBL MfB’s cardholder data environment, security processes, and payment infrastructure against the latest PCI DSS requirements, confirming compliance with internationally recognised payment security standards.
The PCI DSS Certificate of Compliance was formally presented by Mr Navaid Naqvi, CEO/Country Head of Risk Associates Pakistan, along with senior representatives of Risk Associates, to the leadership team of HBL Microfinance Bank.
Commenting on the achievement, Mr Navaid Naqvi, CEO/Country Head of Risk Associates Pakistan, said:
“Achieving PCI DSS v4.0.1 compliance demonstrates HBL Microfinance Bank’s strong commitment to cybersecurity, governance, and customer data protection. The Bank has shown significant dedication in aligning its security practices with international standards, further strengthening trust in its digital banking services.“
As organisations continue to navigate an evolving threat landscape, initiatives such as PCI DSS compliance play a critical role in protecting sensitive payment data and strengthening the overall security of Pakistan’s financial sector.
The ceremony was attended by senior management officials from HBL Microfinance Bank, including Syed Jalal Shah Ahmed, Chief Information Officer; Mustafa Jamshed Gillani, Chief Digital & Financial Inclusion Officer; Junaed Rayaz Chaudhry, Chief Risk Officer; Malik Adeel, Head Compliance; Shahid Abbasi, Head Internal Audit; Ch Ihsan Mehmood, Head Banking Operations; Rizwan Maqsood, Chief Financial Officer; and Wajid Ali, Head Human Resources.
Representatives from Risk Associates were also in attendance, including Dr Muhammad Zahid, Chief Operating Officer; Ahmed Vaseer; and Muhammad Saqlain of the Business Department, highlighting the strong partnership between the two organisations and their shared commitment to strengthening cybersecurity resilience.
