Pakistani Government Plans to Amend Cybercrime Bill for Greater Control Over Internet Access and Social Media

The Pakistani government is considering a new amendment to the controversial cybercrime law, signaling the introduction of broader controls over the internet in Pakistan. This move comes amidst rising concerns about the government’s growing influence over social media and the digital space, which some critics believe could stifle free speech.

The government is reportedly set to scrap certain provisions from the existing cybercrime law, replacing them with new clauses aimed at increasing regulatory oversight. This includes provisions that will require tech companies, especially those operating in the social media sphere, to provide more substantial data and control to the government. Under these amendments, authorities would be empowered to monitor online activities more intensively, potentially leading to the increased censorship of content deemed harmful or anti-government. Critics argue that this might lead to more state surveillance, with a substantial infringement on privacy rights​.

Additionally, social media platforms might be forced to comply with local regulations, such as setting up servers in Pakistan, which would store user data within the country. This measure is seen as a step towards reinforcing government control over digital spaces, aligning Pakistan’s internet policies with those of more authoritarian regimes. These changes are likely to affect the way users in Pakistan experience the internet, as the state strengthens its grip over content regulation and user privacy​.

The draft of this law is still under review, but it is clear that the amendments are being structured with the dual aims of enhancing cyber security and increasing governmental control over internet activity, especially in the realm of social media. The new rules will also impact international tech companies operating in Pakistan, requiring them to comply with stricter regulations or face penalties. As the country grapples with balancing digital freedom and national security concerns, these amendments mark a crucial turning point in the government’s approach to managing the cyber landscape​.

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