Tech Desk 
Dec 04, 2024
An undated image of internet. — iStock
As part of the amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) 2016, the federal government has proposed a five-year imprisonment or a fine of Rs1 million for individuals guilty of sharing fabricated or misleading information on the internet.
Citing sources, The News reported that with "wholesale" amendments to the existing cybercrime laws, the government aims to establish the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), a regulatory body, authorised to gatekeep and block online content and access to social media.
In light of the draft, individuals will be bound to pay substantial penalties for misleading people through the dissemination of fake or partially false information aimed at disrupting harmony by leveraging online platforms.
“Individuals found guilty of such offences may face both imprisonment and fines,” stated the draft pointing at people spreading fear and disturbing order.
On the sidelines of blocking inappropriate or fake news, the authority will also have the power to do away with content hurting the religious sentiments of people.
Threats, false accusations or pornography will also fall under the definition of illicit content which the DRPA will be empowered to remove.
However, individuals and groups will have the opportunity to challenge actions taken by the authority.
