The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has directed social media users to refrain from creating, publishing or transmitting any illegal, hateful, defamatory or misleading content, underscoring the need for immediate removal of such material when identified.
The PTA warning also advises users to avoid participating in narratives or campaigns that could damage national integrity or impugn the dignity of state institutions and private individuals. Authorities emphasised that collective restraint online helps protect social cohesion and public trust.
The authority reminded the public that Section 20 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 makes it a punishable offence to intentionally spread false information that harms a person’s reputation or violates their privacy. The PTA referred to PECA 2016 as the legal basis for action against deliberate misinformation and online defamation.
Reiterating that responsible digital behaviour is a shared national responsibility, the PTA warning made clear that legal proceedings will be pursued without discrimination against those who breach the law. Users are urged to exercise caution and to remove or report content that may contravene legal or ethical standards.
