Tech Desk 
Aug 05, 2025
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has notified social media and internet users in Pakistan that sharing or promoting illegal content on the digital platform will not be tolerated.
Although free speech is guaranteed in the Constitution, the PTA has made it clear that any misuse of that right to spread illegal, immoral, or injurious content to others will not be allowed.
The authority said that free speech and or expression cannot provide immunity to any blasphemous content or to posts that insult religious beliefs or holy personalities with content. Sharing this content makes the person participating a perpetrator under Pakistani law, and the law will enforce criminal penalties for any contributor.
Also, the PTA has raised serious concerns over deepening usage of digital spaces to spread false narratives, fake news, and harmful explicit content. The PTA said this misuse of digital spaces to support harmful agendas and promote free speech and activism is concerning.
There are also serious crimes punishable by law in sharing posts that create hatred towards individuals or state institutions (the armed forces and national security institutions).
These crimes fall under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, which the PTA has clearly said they will enforce fully. They stated that it is their right and duty to protect the values and interests of Pakistan and to maintain digital discipline.
As part of their program to engage the public in being responsible and identifying inappropriate content, the PTA is encouraging citizens to report anything illegal or unethical using the PTA CMS mobile app. This tool lets users quickly flag objectionable material for review.
