The federal government of Pakistan has officially established the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA) under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act 2025.
The authority aims to regulate social media platforms, monitor online content, and curb the spread of illegal or objectionable material across the country.
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The government has appointed Ayaz Shaukat as the first chairman of SMPRA, supported by five other members including Soheil Iqbal, Adnan Khan, Muhammad Salman Zafar, Fahad Malik, and Muhammad Saad Ali.
All members have been assigned a five-year term, and the central office will be based in Islamabad, with provisions for provincial offices if required.
SMPRA will act as a central regulator for all social media platforms operating in Pakistan. Registration will be mandatory for both local and international platforms, and the authority can partially or fully block platforms in case of legal violations.
It also has the power to order the removal of illegal or misleading content within 24 hours, or even faster in urgent cases.
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Penalties for spreading fake news include up to three years in prison and fines of PKR 2 million for individuals, while companies can face fines up to PKR 500 million (Rs 50 crore).
A Social Media Complaint Council and a Protection Tribunal will handle grievances and appeals, aiming to resolve cases within 90 days.
The government claims these measures will protect users from harassment, scams, and harmful content online.
