The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has urged parents to closely monitor their children’s use of mobile phones and other digital devices amid concerns about online safety and fraud.
PTA said parents should take steps to protect children from online risks, including scams, inappropriate content and potentially harmful websites.
The authority advised parents to limit children’s daily screen time and ensure they maintain a balance between education, entertainment, rest and family activities.
It also recommended that children use smartphones, tablets and laptops under adult supervision, with devices preferably kept in shared areas of the home rather than being used privately.
The PTA encouraged parents to improve their own understanding of digital platforms so they can help children use social media and other online services safely and responsibly.
Parents were also advised to use parental controls, content filters and other built-in safety features to restrict access to inappropriate or potentially dangerous material. Age-appropriate settings should be enabled while allowing children access to educational and recreational content.
The guidance comes amid growing debate in Pakistan over children’s access to social media and the risks they face online.
In a response submitted to the Islamabad High Court on 1 October, the PTA said it does not have the legal authority under its existing jurisdiction to impose mandatory age verification or restrict social media access for children under 16.
The authority issued similar guidance on 30 July, calling on parents to monitor their children’s social media use and make greater use of parental controls and age-appropriate content filters.
The PTA said parental supervision, digital awareness and the responsible use of safety tools were important in helping children benefit from the internet while reducing their exposure to online risks.
