ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s government has proposed up to five-year imprisonment or a fine of Rs1 million or both for individuals found guilty of deliberately spreading fake news, as part of initial amendments to the cybercrime law.
The draft introduces significant changes to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (PECA), including the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA) with extensive powers to block or remove online content deemed harmful to public safety or state interests, Geo News reported on Tuesday.
The authority would advise federal and provincial governments on “digital ethics and related fields”, promote education and research, incentivise and facilitate social media platforms and ensure the safety of users from harm online, the Dawn reported.
The DRPA would also “regulate” social media content, investigate complaints of violation of this Act and order authorities to “block” or restrict access to content.
The DRPA would also outline time frames for social media companies to implement its orders and make provisions for these platforms to have offices or representatives in Pakistan.
According to the draft, as cited by Geo News, spreading false information, inciting fear, or disrupting peace through online platforms could lead to severe penalties.
“Individuals found guilty of such offences may face both imprisonment and fines,” reads the draft while also referring to those spreading fear and creating unrest.
The law further specifies that content involving threats, false accusations, or pornography will also be subject to removal. Decisions by the authority can be challenged in a tribunal.
The authority will consist of a chairman and six members, including three ex-officio members, tasked with upholding digital rights and maintaining cybersecurity across the country.
The proposed amendments to the cybercrime laws come as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration has time again decried misuse of social media platforms for spreading fake news and propaganda that poses a threat to the country’s national interests.
The amendments were confirmed by the prime minister’s adviser Barrister Aqeel Malik to the Dawn, who said the new provisions were aimed at “eliminating misinformation and negative propaganda”.
