Web desk: The Pakistani government has launched a major crackdown on fake news during the ongoing protests by a religious party, according to the sources.
Fake news networks have been exposed, and a list of key individuals involved has been prepared, according to the sources.
Cases will be registered under the NCCIA against those involved, while FIA Cybercrime and other special units are expected to arrest the accused immediately.
A Deep Fake Lab is actively conducting forensic examinations of fake videos and audios, the sources added.
A series of notices has been issued to social media platforms, directing them to remove fake content within 24 hours.
Recommendations for the permanent suspension of accounts repeatedly involved in spreading misinformation are also under consideration.
Authorities have warned the public to avoid sharing unverified videos or clips, stressing that action may be taken against those who do so.
Crackdown Against Spread of Fake News
A zero-tolerance policy has been implemented against the spread of hateful and false content targeting state institutions.
Sources revealed that authorities have begun tracing overseas networks behind the fake news propaganda, with embassies preparing strict legal and diplomatic measures.
Consultations on red notices and international cooperation are also underway.
Media channels and bloggers have been instructed to ensure double verification before broadcasting any content.
A targeted operation has been launched against misleading hashtags and trolling campaigns, while authorities continue identifying financial facilitators and screening suspicious transactions linked to propaganda networks.
Additional penalties will be imposed for spreading rumours during emergencies, the sources said, adding that many fake accounts are operating from India and Afghanistan.
Provincial focal persons have been nominated, and immediate response and counter-messaging units have been activated.
Authorities have also activated the official helpline 1919 for reporting fake news, assuring that the identity of informants will be kept confidential.
