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The federal government says people found guilty of spreading fake news could now face a five-year prison sentence or a Rs1 million fine. As reported by Geo News, this is part of initial amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016.
Creation of a Digital Rights Protection Authority
The drafted amendments also propose the establishment of a new body called the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA). This authority will have the power to block or remove online content that is considered harmful to public safety or national interests. Additionally, it will be able to take action against content that spreads false information, causes panic or disrupts public peace.
“Individuals found guilty of such offences may face both imprisonment and fines,” reads the draft.
The law specifies that any content involving threats, false accusations, or pornography will be removed. However, decisions made by the authority can be challenged in a court, assuring sincerity.
Furthermore, the authority will have a team of a chairman and six members, including three ex-officio members. These members will be tasked with protecting digital rights and maintaining cybersecurity across the country.
Government’s Efforts Against Fake News
These proposed-changes come after concerns raised by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration about the misuse of social media platforms for spreading fake news and misinformation.
In addition to the banning of X, formerly known as Twitter, Pakistan has also experienced irregular internet disruptions, which have made it difficult for users to share media and access social media platforms. This could be due to the government conducting multiple tests of its internet firewall, with the first few trials taking place in July and August.
Read more: Internet Issues Could Take Three Months to Resolve: P@SHA
Misuse of Social Media
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar recently accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party of using artificial intelligence to create fake images and spread misleading information on social media. He pointed out that the PTI had circulated 2019 photographs from its time in power to confuse the public.
Tarar also commented on a viral video showing a man being dragged off a container during PTI’s “do-or-die” protest in Islamabad. He clarified that the man, from Mandi Bahauddin, was not praying as some had claimed, but was filming a TikTok video, and assured the public that he was alive.
The proposed amendments to Pakistan’s cybercrime laws aim to tackle the spread of fake news and online content that harms public safety or national interests. The creation of the Digital Rights Protection Authority will play a key role in monitoring and removing harmful online material as well.
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