The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has blocked over 5,000 websites flagged by Interpol for hosting child sexual abuse material, according to a PTA document. In its ongoing efforts to combat online child exploitation, PTA has introduced a dedicated “Child Abuse” category within its Complaint Management System (CMS).
Equipped with a mobile app, the CMS enables individuals to file complaints under specific categories, providing automated complaint IDs for streamlined tracking. A dedicated team reviews each case, coordinates with social media platforms, and ensures the swift removal or blocking of illegal content. PTA is also collaborating with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to obtain additional URLs for timely action.
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In partnership with the National Commission on the Rights of Child (NCRC) and UNICEF, PTA has contributed to a detailed report titled “Situation Analysis of Child Online Protection in Pakistan.” This comprehensive document examines the risks of children’s Internet usage, various forms of online exploitation, and challenges in the digital landscape. It highlights gaps in legal and institutional frameworks while offering targeted recommendations for policymakers, law enforcement, educators, and stakeholders to address these issues effectively.
To enhance online safety education, PTA has localized the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) mascot initiative, “Online Safety with Sango,” into Urdu. Completed in April 2024, this initiative features five interactive lessons designed to teach children about personal data protection and safe digital practices. By translating Sango’s lessons, PTA aims to make online safety knowledge accessible to a broader audience across Pakistan.
Additionally, PTA is exploring the introduction of Network Level Parental Control Software in collaboration with Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Inspired by global best practices, this software will enable parents to manage and restrict their children’s online activities, creating a safer digital environment. PTA is consulting with industry stakeholders to assess the feasibility of this initiative. Once deployed, the software will protect children from risks such as inappropriate content, cyberbullying, and screen addiction.
Despite these advancements, PTA emphasizes that technical measures alone are insufficient to address the growing threats to children online. The document calls for a coordinated, multi-stakeholder approach involving governments, tech companies, law enforcement agencies, educational institutions, and civil society.
Empowering parents through training programs and enforcing strict penalties under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016, are vital for deterring malicious actors. Collaborative efforts are essential to building a safe and constructive digital environment for children in Pakistan.
