The government is planning significant revisions to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, aiming to establish a new body called the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA). This authority would have the power to block online content, restrict access to social media, and prosecute individuals spreading “fake news.”
A draft of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2024 reveals the DRPA’s responsibilities, including regulating social media content and removing prohibited material. It would also oversee social media platforms, requiring them to comply with local regulations and possibly set up offices in Pakistan.
The amendments introduce a broader definition of “social media platforms,” including tools that allow access to social media, like VPNs, which could be restricted if used to bypass content blocks. The government previously considered registering VPNs but shelved the idea after legal concerns.
The DRPA would replace the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in enforcing the law. The authority would also promote digital ethics, ensure online user safety, and take action against unlawful content, which now includes a wide range of offenses such as blasphemy, violence incitement, defamation, and “fake news.”
A new section in the law would punish those posting “fake news” online with up to five years in prison or a fine. The definition of “unlawful” content is expanded, and new penalties would make offenses under this law non-bailable and non-compoundable.
The changes, still under discussion, aim to curb misinformation but have raised concerns, especially over the proposed prison terms for “fake news” and the authority’s powers to censor content.
