The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) issued a formal alert to the public, warning that any dissemination of illegal digital content will lead to immediate legal consequences. While the regulator acknowledged that freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it clarified that this “must not be used as a shield” to spread blasphemy, hate speech against national institutions, or fake news. This warning comes on the heels of a massive crackdown in which the PTA recently informed the Lahore High Court that it has blocked over 1.4 million web links, with TikTok seeing the highest removal rate at 94%.
PTA warns public against illegal online content
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In a major relief for the diaspora, the PTA also officially launched the “Overseas SIM Retention Facility.” This initiative allows Pakistanis living abroad to keep their mobile SIM cards active and protected from blocking during extended stays away from home. Previously, prepaid SIMs were often deactivated if not used for 180 days. Under the new rules, overseas citizens can contact their respective cellular companies (Jazz, Zong, Telenor, or Ufone) to activate a “retention mode” for a specified period by paying a nominal fee.
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The PTA stressed that users are legally responsible for all activity on SIM cards registered in their names. To report unlawful material, including defamatory content or immoral propaganda, citizens are encouraged to use the Content Management System (CMS) mobile app. These dual measures aim to tighten digital security within Pakistan while finally addressing the long-standing connectivity issues faced by the millions of Pakistanis living overseas.
