On December 31, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) issued a warning to social media users against sharing illegal and unlawful content online, while also reminding telecom consumers that all SIM cards must be registered in the user’s own name.

In a message released by a spokesperson for the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, users were urged to exercise caution and responsibility when using digital platforms. The authority stated that freedom of expression is a fundamental right, but engaging in or promoting illegal activities under the guise of this freedom is unacceptable and subject to legal action.

The PTA clarified that content involving the desecration of religions, Prophethood or sacred personalities, incitement against any individual or institution, hateful or false propaganda targeting defence and other national institutions, obscene or immoral material, and the spread of fake news on social media platforms constitutes criminal offences under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016.

The authority appealed to the general public to report such unlawful content in the public interest to help maintain peace and order in the country. Citizens were encouraged to use the PTA’s Content Management System (CMS) mobile application to report illegal online material.

Separately, the PTA reminded telecom consumers of the requirement that all SIMs must be registered in the user’s own name. In a statement, the authority urged responsible use of SIMs and telecommunications services, warning that the use of SIMs registered in another individual’s name is a violation of applicable regulations.

The PTA cautioned that failure to comply with SIM registration rules may result in legal consequences, reiterating the importance of adherence to existing telecommunications laws and regulations.