ISLAMABAD: The federal government has proposed five years in jail or a fine of Rs 10 lakh for those found guilty of deliberately spreading fake news as part of preliminary amendments to the cybercrime law, Geo News reported on Tuesday. Reported to
The draft introduces significant changes to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (PECA), with broad powers to block or remove online content deemed harmful to public safety or state interests. Authority (DRPA) is also included.
According to the draft, severe punishments can be imposed for spreading false information, spreading fear or disturbing peace through online platforms. “Persons found guilty of such offenses may face both imprisonment and fines,” the draft said, referring to those who spread fear and unrest.
The authority will be empowered to block or remove online content targeting law enforcement agencies, state agencies or individuals. It will also have jurisdiction over content promoting religious or ethnic hatred, terrorism and violence against the state. The law further specifies that content containing threats, false accusations or obscene content will also be removed. The authority’s decisions can be challenged in a tribunal, ensuring a system of checks and balances.
The authority will consist of a chairman and six members, including three ex-officio members, who are tasked with upholding digital rights and maintaining cyber security across the country.
The proposed changes in cybercrime laws come at a time when Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration has repeatedly condemned the misuse of social media platforms to spread fake news and propaganda that threaten the country’s national interests. Apart from banned X services, the country has been witnessing intermittent interruptions in the internet resulting in difficulties for users to share media and access various social media and communication platforms. The government has already conducted several tests of its Internet firewall, with the first and second tests conducted in July and August respectively.
On both occasions, the trials slowed down internet speeds and disrupted digital platforms. However, no specific reason has been revealed for the recent internet outages that have characterized slow internet speeds.