Cabinet approves amendments to social media rules

The federal cabinet has approved amendments to social media rules introduced last year under which social media companies would have to set up offices in Pakistan within six months and take action against objectionable content in 48 hours, Dawn reported on Wednesday.

As per the report, the rules framed under Section 37 (unlawful online content) of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (Peca) have been approved by the cabinet.

The amended rules — Removal and Blocking of Unlawful Online Content (Procedure, Oversight and Safeguards) Rules, 2021 — make it compulsory for digital media companies to register with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) within three months of the law coming into force. They would also have to appoint an authorised compliance officer and grievance officer based in Pakistan within the same time frame to address complaints within seven days.

The rules also direct social media companies to establish an office in Pakistan, preferably located in Islamabad, within six months of the rules coming into force. Previously, the rules directed the companies to set up their offices within nine months.

The PTA would give 48 hours, instead of 24 hours previously, to the service provider or social media company for removing or blocking access to online content. The PTA may initiate proceedings if the service provider or social media company fails to remove, block access or comply within the specified time.

The post Cabinet approves amendments to social media rules appeared first on Pakistan Today.

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