Cybercrime legislation enforced across country, NA told

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications (MoITT) told the National Assembly that he cybercrime legislation, primarily governed by the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, is actively enforced cross the country.

In a written reply to question of Shazia Sobia Aslam, the ministry stated that the Federal Investigation Authority (FIA) had created a specialised cybercrime wing to investigate and prosecute offences registered under PECA.

Additionally, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) enforced the Removal and Blocking of Unlawful Content (Procedures, Oversight and Safeguards) Rules 2021, which provide mechanisms to regulate, remove and block unlawful online content. These combined efforts aim to ensure compliance with digital laws and maintain secure online environment.

Due to growing complexity of cybercrimes and rapid technological advancements, the MoITT has reviewed the PECA law and further proposed amendments to enhance Pakistan’s cybercrime legislative framework.

Key features of these amendments include: Establishing the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA) to safeguard digital rights and ensure online safety. Comprehensively defining and regulating unlawful online content. Enhancing penalties for offences such as the dissemination of fake or false information. Establishing a new specialised investigation agency for the purpose of investigating and prosecuting cybercrime offences under the PECA Act. These amendments have been vetted by the Law and Justice Division, approved by the Cabinet Committee for Disposal of Legislative Cases (CCLC), and are currently pending approval by the federal cabinet. Admissibility is being re-considered because the Information Technology and Telecommunication Division referred the question to Finance Division for acceptance.