FIA Cyber Crime Wing Registers First Case for Spreading Fake News Online in Karachi
In a groundbreaking development against digital misinformation, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing has registered its first case of spreading fabricated news online under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) in Karachi. The suspect, Saifur Rehman, a resident of Gulshan-e-Iqbal Block 1, is accused of using social media to propagate misinformation during a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest in November.
Case Details
The FIA alleges that the suspect used his social media account to spread fake news and publish derogatory content targeting the state and its institutions. A technical analysis of his Twitter account revealed multiple posts promoting anti-state narratives, which were reportedly active during the investigation.
Read More: Fake Site Spreads Misinformation About PTI-Supported Candidates
Nationwide Crackdown on Digital Misinformation
The case comes on the heels of the federal government’s decision, announced on December 6, to launch a comprehensive crackdown on individuals spreading anti-state propaganda online. The initiative targets those disseminating fake news or inciting negativity against security institutions.
Key measures include:
- Formation of joint teams comprising security agencies, FIA Cyber Crime Wing, and cybersecurity experts at federal and provincial levels.
- Empowerment of teams to conduct raids, arrests, and investigations with support from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and related institutions.
- Tracking and monitoring of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and others to identify harmful or fake accounts.
Recent FIRs and Arrests
A day prior to Saifur Rehman’s case, an FIR was registered against 12 individuals from Karachi, Sanghar, Quetta, Pishin, Qila Abdullah, and Swat. These suspects were accused of posting defamatory and provocative content targeting state institutions and inciting rebellion.
Amendments to PECA
To strengthen measures against misinformation, the federal government has drafted amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). The proposal includes:
- 16 categories of unlawful content, including fake news, hate speech, and material spreading fear or panic.
- Penalties of up to five years imprisonment or a Rs. 1 million fine for violators.
- Establishment of the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA) to oversee content regulation, consisting of a chairperson and six members.
These actions reflect a robust approach to tackling the growing challenge of digital misinformation, ensuring accountability, and safeguarding state institutions in the age of social media.
