Pakistan has decided to fast-track the establishment of a Social Media Regulatory Authority, aiming to bring accountability and structure to the country’s fast-growing digital space. Officials from the National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency (NCCIA) informed the Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting that the federal cabinet has already approved rules for the new authority. The move is being seen as a crucial step toward protecting citizens from scams, harassment, and disinformation on social media platforms.
Rules Approved and Recruitment Process Initiated
NCCIA officials told the committee, chaired by Senator Ali Zafar, that advertisements for staff recruitment would soon be issued to build a specialized workforce capable of monitoring and regulating social media activity. The committee stressed the urgency of this framework, noting that Pakistan has seen a surge in cyber-related crimes and disinformation campaigns that threaten public trust, social harmony, and even national security.
Rise in Financial Fraud and Cybercrime Cases
The NCCIA disclosed that nine members of the National Assembly were recently defrauded through scams carried out using the name of Senator Irfan Siddiqui. Money was demanded from lawmakers through fake profiles, with nine parliamentarians falling victim. Officials reported that Rs 1.3 million has been recovered so far and four suspects are under arrest, while efforts to nab the main culprit continue. They also revealed that Rs 10 million was recovered during the past five months from WhatsApp hacking cases, showing how sophisticated such cyber scams have become. Currently, the NCCIA is handling 611 financial fraud cases, 320 harassment complaints, and 10 cases against journalists. Officials warned that illegally obtained SIM cards are also being used to facilitate financial crimes and terrorism.
Concerns Over Harassment and Freedom of Speech
Senator Pervaiz Rasheed raised serious concerns about harassment campaigns and threats he faced after a Senate speech. He lamented that despite the online abuse and threats, no authority contacted him to provide support or redressal. Rasheed cautioned that such unchecked harassment not only threatens individual safety but also undermines democratic debate and freedom of expression. He called for a balanced approach that safeguards both user rights and free speech while curbing targeted harassment on social platforms.
Implications and Expert Opinions
Digital policy experts say the creation of a Social Media Regulatory Authority could help Pakistan align with international best practices in digital governance. They believe it could improve mechanisms for reporting and resolving online abuse, protect vulnerable users, and deter cybercriminals. However, rights advocates have urged the government to ensure that the authority does not become a tool for censorship or political control. They stress that clear safeguards, independent oversight, and public transparency must be embedded into the regulatory framework to maintain trust.
