Federal Government Introduces Amendments to Cybercrime Laws with Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA)
The federal government of Pakistan has introduced the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act 2025 in the National Assembly, proposing significant updates to existing cybercrime laws to address the evolving challenges of digital threats and ensure the protection of citizens’ digital rights.
A key feature of the amendment is the establishment of the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), which will play a central role in regulating online social media content, protecting citizens’ digital rights, and tackling cybercrimes. This amendment aims to align the country’s legal framework with the growing complexity of cyber threats and the increasing use of digital technologies, ensuring the safety of individuals, institutions, and the economy in the digital space.
Key Features of the Proposed Amendments
- Authority of the DRPA:
The DRPA will have broad powers to regulate online content, including:- Blocking and Removing Prohibited Content: The authority will be able to remove or block obscene or prohibited online content.
- Combatting Fake News: Spreading fake news will be punishable by up to three years of imprisonment, a fine of up to Rs. 2 million, or both.
- Investigating Complaints: It will investigate complaints regarding unlawful or obscene online material.
- Action Against Offenders: The authority will take action against individuals involved in sharing illegal content.
- Structure of the DRPA:
The DRPA will consist of nine members, including a chairperson appointed by the federal government for a three-year term. The authority will include members from both the government and the private sector, with representatives from the Interior Ministry, the IT Ministry, PTA, PEMRA, as well as experts from journalism, software development, legal, and IT sectors. Decisions within the authority will be made with a majority vote, with the chairperson holding the exclusive authority to issue orders to block illegal content. The decisions will need to be confirmed within 48 hours.
Social Media and Illegal Content Classification
- Definition of Social Media Platforms:
The amendment introduces a new definition of “social media platform,” covering a wide range of tools, software, websites, applications, and systems that enable access to social media platforms. This update is designed to ensure improved cooperation between the DRPA and social media companies operating in Pakistan. - Classification of Illegal Content:
The amendment provides a more detailed list of 16 types of illegal online content, including:- Blasphemy, hate speech, incitement to violence, and terrorism-related content.
- Content that threatens national security, public order, or morality.
- Copyright infringement, pornography, fake news, defamation, and blackmail targeting institutions, including the armed forces.
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Regulation and Oversight
- The DRPA will have the power to oversee compliance with regulations and set conditions for social media platforms to operate in Pakistan. Social media companies will be required to register with the DRPA and establish local offices or representatives within the country.
Promoting Safe Internet Use
- The DRPA will also play a role in educating and promoting safe internet use, working alongside federal and provincial governments to foster digital ethics and ensure online user protection. Its objective is to encourage responsible and safe internet practices and to mitigate the risks of online abuse, misinformation, and cybercrimes.
Objectives of the Amendment
The Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act 2025 aims to modernize Pakistan’s cybercrime legislation to meet the challenges of the digital age. Key objectives of the proposed amendments include:
- Establishing a strong legal framework to combat cybercrimes.
- Providing clear definitions and regulations for illegal online content.
- Ensuring the protection of citizens’ digital rights and online safety.
- Addressing critical issues like hate speech, misinformation, and content that incites violence.
- Promoting collaboration with social media platforms for better content regulation.
Conclusion
The proposed amendments aim to create a balanced approach to protecting digital rights, ensuring online safety, and combating cybercrimes in Pakistan. If passed, the DRPA will play a pivotal role in regulating the digital space, while the new framework will help safeguard citizens and promote a safer, more responsible online environment.
