ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has ramped up efforts to tackle online content considered harmful, including pornographic, immoral, and indecent material.
As part of its ongoing mission to create a safer digital environment, the PTA reports blocking 93.84% of processed URLs linked to such content.
In April 2022, PTA introduced the Central Domain Name System (C-DNS) policy enforcement mechanism, which allows for the real-time blocking of unlawful content. This initiative aligns with the authority’s commitment to upholding the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, specifically Section 37, which targets harmful online material.
The PTA has also focused on addressing concerns related to popular social media platforms, notably TikTok. In September 2020, PTA directed TikTok to take stronger measures to block vulgar, indecent, and explicit content within Pakistan. The authority continues to work closely with these platforms to ensure they adhere to local regulations and maintain effective content moderation practices.
Beyond blocking harmful content, PTA is committed to raising awareness about online safety and promoting responsible internet use. It has rolled out several initiatives to educate both consumers and parents about the risks of the digital world and how to mitigate them. Key measures include:
Online Safety Guide: PTA provides a comprehensive guide with best practices for online safety, offering advice on how to secure personal information and avoid online threats.
Consumer Complaints Platform: For reporting objectionable content or suspicious activities, PTA has created an easy-to-use platform where users can lodge complaints, leading to swift action against harmful content.
Parental Control Solutions: To empower parents, PTA recommends various parental control software options, which allow guardians to monitor and filter online content, ensuring children have a safer and healthier digital experience.
Through these proactive initiatives, PTA continues to play a pivotal role in protecting Pakistan’s digital space, ensuring that the internet remains a safe and secure place for all users.
