A total of 86,000 SIMs involved in anti-state activities have been blocked, Sajid Mehdi the Parliamentary Secretary told the National Assembly on Wednesday.

As per media reports, Mehdi – while responding to a call-to-attention notice by Asiya Naz Tanoli – admitted that the Government of Pakistan had blocked the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) which according to him was a move to curb the misinformation.

Mehdi further confirmed that VPNs have also been banned to control the flow of misinformation.

During his response, the Parliamentary Secretary also disclosed that at least 86,000 SIMs that have been found involved in anti-state activities have been blocked by the authorities.

He told the NA house that the changes in the Electronic Crimes Act are anticipated soon to beef up the regulations against fake news.

“Under the directives of Prime Minister, a task force has been established to tackle fake news, meanwhile, awareness campaigns are being underway in universities, colleges and schools,” he added.

Mehdi highlighted Pakistan’s approach to tackling fake news, contrasting it with international practices, stating, “Globally, fake news is not given as much importance, and there is greater freedom of expression.”

Despite the challenges, the parliamentary secretary stressed the government’s commitment to mitigating the impact of fake news.

It is worth noting here that the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cybercrime Wing has been officially granted authority to take action against social media crimes.

A notification issued by the Ministry of IT confirmed that the powers previously held by the National Cybercrimes and Investigation Agency have been annulled and reassigned to the FIA Cybercrime Wing.

Source: ARY News