The government is set to implement major revisions to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) 2016, which will impose stricter regulations on online content and social media platforms. The proposed Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2024 aims to establish a new authority called the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), responsible for content removal, prosecuting offenders, and ensuring accountability among social media platforms.
A report from Dawn indicates that the draft amendments would grant the DRPA jurisdiction over issues related to prohibited content, misinformation, and tools such as Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) that facilitate access to restricted sites. Engaging with or disseminating “fake news” would be classified as a non-bailable offense, punishable by up to five years in prison.
These changes have been confirmed by Barrister Aqeel Malik, an adviser to the prime minister, who emphasized that the amendments are intended to address “misinformation and negative propaganda.” The revisions also broaden the definition of social media, which could affect how individuals in Pakistan access and utilize the internet.
Key Highlights of the Proposed Changes:
- Creation of the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA) to manage online content.
- Expansion of the social media definition to include tools like VPNs.
- Non-bailable classification for “fake news” offenses, with potential prison sentences of up to five years.
While the government presents these changes as essential for combating misinformation, critics are likely to raise concerns about their implications for digital freedom and free speech.
