The Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act 2025 represents a major shift in Pakistan’s digital governance. By establishing the Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), the state has moved toward a more centralized and specialized model for regulating social media and online content.
Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act 2025: A Detailed Guide
The PECA Amendment 2025 (پیکا ترمیمی ایکٹ 2025) strengthens the government’s ability to monitor digital communication and combat disinformation. For legal practitioners and digital creators, understanding these new compliance layers is essential to avoid heavy fines and criminal liability.
1. The Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA)
The centerpiece of the 2025 amendment is the creation of the DRPA. Unlike previous frameworks that relied solely on the PTA, the DRPA is a dedicated body for:
Content Regulation: Investigating and blocking unlawful online material.
Emergency Powers: The Chairperson can block content immediately, provided it is ratified within 48 hours.
Composition: A 7-member body including IT experts and ministry officials.
2. Expanded Scope and Definitions
The legal definition of “Social Media Platforms” now covers almost every tool used for digital communication in Pakistan.
Inclusions: Websites, mobile applications, and any digital tools facilitating communication.
Jurisdiction: Any individual or entity operating these platforms within Pakistan’s borders is now subject to DRPA oversight.
3. Offenses and Penalties
The amendment introduces strict measures against “Fake News” and harmful content.
| Offense Type | Potential Penalty | Fine Amount |
| Disseminating Fake Info / Panic | Up to 3 Years Imprisonment | Rs. 2,000,000 |
| Defamation & Hate Speech | Varies by Severity | Subject to DRPA Rules |
| Non-Compliance by Platforms | Fines & Service Blocking | Platform-specific penalties |
پیکا (ترمیم) ایکٹ 2025: ڈیجیٹل حقوق اور سوشل میڈیا قوانین
پیکا ایکٹ 2025 پاکستان کے سائبر قوانین میں ایک بڑی تبدیلی ہے۔ اس ترمیم کا مقصد آن لائن مواد کی نگرانی کو بہتر بنانا اور غلط معلومات (Disinformation) پھیلانے والوں کے خلاف سخت کارروائی کرنا ہے۔
ڈیجیٹل رائٹس پروٹیکشن اتھارٹی (DRPA)
اس ایکٹ کے تحت ایک نئی اتھارٹی DRPA قائم کی گئی ہے جو سوشل میڈیا مواد کو ریگولیٹ کرنے اور غیر قانونی مواد کو بلاک کرنے کی ذمہ دار ہوگی۔
چیئرمین کے اختیارات: چیئرمین کے پاس ہنگامی بنیادوں پر کسی بھی غیر قانونی مواد کو بلاک کرنے کا اختیار ہوگا۔
سزائیں: جھوٹی خبریں یا خوف و ہراس پھیلانے والے شخص کو 3 سال تک قید اور 20 لاکھ روپے تک جرمانہ ہو سکتا ہے۔
دفاتر کا قیام: سوشل میڈیا کمپنیوں کے لیے پاکستان میں دفاتر قائم کرنا اور نمائندے مقرر کرنا لازمی قرار دیا جا سکتا ہے۔
Legal Advice & Compliance by City Laws Associates
As the DRPA begins its enforcement phase, businesses and influencers must ensure their digital presence aligns with the new standards. City Laws Associates offers specialized services in:
Cyber Law Defense: Representing clients in cases related to PECA violations and FIA investigations.
Content Auditing: Reviewing digital content for compliance with defamation and hate speech laws.
Platform Registration: Assisting tech companies with local registration and legal representation in Pakistan.
Removal of Defamatory Content: Filing formal petitions to the DRPA for the removal of unlawful or defamatory material.
