FIA cybercrime wing gets powers to act against social media offences

By Muhammad JuniadPublished On 11 Dec 2024

According to the notification, the National Cybercrimes and Investigation Agency’s rules have been annulled, and its powers have been transferred to the FIA Cybercrime Wing again.

The National Cybercrimes and Investigation Agency was established in 2023, but its responsibilities will now be managed by the FIA.

It is to be noted that the government of Pakistan has decided to amend the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) to tackle the spread of false information and fearmongering on social media, with penalties including imprisonment and fines.

According to reports, any content that targets national institutions or individuals, or spreads fear, will be removed in Pakistan.

A draft proposal suggests the establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), which will have the authority to block or remove social media content.

As per the new amendment to PECA, the DRPA authority will have the power to issue orders to remove content targeting law enforcement agencies or individuals. It will also be responsible for removing content that spreads hatred against the state of Pakistan and its institutions.