The government has moved quickly to establish a Social Media Regulatory Authority, aiming to monitor and regulate online platforms more effectively. Officials from the National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency (NCCIA) informed the Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting that the federal cabinet had already approved the necessary rules. They further added that advertisements for staff recruitment will be issued soon, ensuring the authority becomes operational at the earliest.
Senate Committee Highlights Urgency
Chaired by Senator Ali Zafar, the Senate Standing Committee underscored the urgent need for strong oversight of social media platforms. Members of the committee emphasized that while digital connectivity has transformed communication, unchecked misuse of platforms is fueling financial fraud, harassment, and misinformation. The committee insisted that the new authority must prioritize safeguarding public interests, protecting user rights, and curbing the growing misuse of online platforms in Pakistan.
Lawmakers Defrauded Through Fake Identity Scam
During the meeting, officials revealed a disturbing incident involving scams executed in the name of Senator Irfan Siddiqui. Using his identity, fraudsters demanded money from lawmakers, successfully deceiving nine members of the National Assembly. Senator Siddiqui disclosed that despite lodging four complaints, no remedy had been provided. The committee expressed serious concern over the incident and directed the NCCIA to submit a comprehensive report on the case with detailed findings.
Recoveries Made in Fraud Cases
Officials from NCCIA updated the committee that Rs 1.3 million had been recovered in connection with the fraud case linked to Senator Siddiqui’s impersonation. Four suspects had already been arrested, and efforts were underway to capture the prime accused. Highlighting broader achievements, the officials added that Rs 10 million had been recovered in WhatsApp hacking cases over the past five months, showing increasing challenges in tracking digital financial crimes across the country.
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NCCIA Reports Rising Cybercrime Cases
The Director General of NCCIA presented alarming statistics about the growing volume of cybercrime in Pakistan. He disclosed that 611 financial fraud cases and 320 harassment complaints had been registered during recent months. Additionally, 10 cases had been filed against journalists, reflecting the varied scope of cyber-related offenses. Officials further warned that illegally obtained SIM cards were being misused not only for fraud but also for terrorism-related activities across the digital landscape.
Harassment Concerns Raised by Senator Rasheed
Senator Pervaiz Rasheed used the committee platform to highlight his personal experiences with online harassment. Following a speech he delivered in the Senate, Rasheed said he faced targeted abuse and threatening campaigns on social media. He stressed that no government authority reached out to provide assistance or relief. According to him, such online attacks not only undermine the dignity of parliamentarians but also discourage freedom of expression within Pakistan’s democratic structure.
Calls for Strong Safeguards and Mechanisms
Rasheed emphasized that while regulation is necessary, it must strike a balance between protecting free speech and curbing digital abuse. He urged that strong mechanisms be developed to prevent harassment of lawmakers, journalists, and citizens. The committee echoed his call, insisting the new authority should ensure that social media is not used for character assassination, misinformation, or blackmail. Instead, it should foster responsible dialogue while penalizing malicious digital campaigns.
Future Steps for Implementation
The meeting concluded with a commitment to accelerate the process of establishing the Social Media Regulatory Authority. NCCIA was tasked with finalizing its report on fraud cases, while the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting was instructed to fast-track recruitment and operational setup. Officials stressed that once functional, the authority will serve as a central body to monitor digital platforms, curb cybercrimes, and safeguard citizens’ rights in the evolving online environment.
