Government Proposes Tougher Cybercrime Laws to Curb Fake News and Online Misuse
The federal government has proposed stringent amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (PECA), introducing penalties of up to five years’ imprisonment or a Rs1 million fine for those found guilty of intentionally spreading fake news.
Key Amendments
The draft amendments, aimed at combating online misinformation and maintaining digital security, propose the creation of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA). This authority will have sweeping powers to block or remove content deemed harmful to public safety, state institutions, or individuals.
Provisions and Penalties
Under the proposed law, spreading false information, inciting fear, or disrupting public peace via digital platforms may result in severe penalties, including imprisonment and fines. The authority will also have jurisdiction over content that:
- Targets law enforcement agencies or state institutions.
- Promotes religious or ethnic hatred, terrorism, or violence.
- Involves false accusations, threats, or pornography.
To ensure accountability, decisions made by the DRPA can be contested in a tribunal.
Structure of the Authority
The DRPA will consist of a chairman and six members, including three ex-officio members, tasked with protecting digital rights and maintaining cybersecurity.
Government’s Concerns Over Social Media Misuse
The move comes amid growing concerns over the misuse of social media platforms. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration has criticized the spread of fake news and propaganda, which it believes threatens national interests.
Last week, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of using artificial intelligence to fabricate images and circulate old photographs to mislead the public. He also dismissed a viral video of an individual allegedly harmed during a PTI protest, clarifying that the person in question was filming a TikTok video and was unharmed.
Internet Disruptions and Censorship Concerns
The proposed amendments follow recent internet disruptions and reports of slowed online services, attributed to the government’s testing of a national internet firewall in July and August. While the trials were ostensibly conducted to improve cybersecurity, they led to slower internet speeds and raised concerns about censorship and restricted digital freedoms.
The proposed changes to the cybercrime law have sparked debate, with supporters emphasizing the need to counter online disinformation and critics warning of potential misuse to stifle dissent.
