The National Computer Emergency Response Team (nCERT) has issued a critical advisory titled “Safe, Diligent, and Responsible Usage of Social Media”, urging citizens to adopt secure digital habits amid rising online threats in Pakistan.
As of January 2025, over 66.9 million Pakistanis—approximately 26.4% of the population—are active on platforms such as WhatsApp, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. This surge in usage has prompted a national-level alert to raise awareness about growing cyber risks.
The advisory highlights various dangers, including misinformation, disinformation, and digital propaganda, which are increasingly used to erode public trust, sow confusion, and manipulate public opinion. These tactics can impact everything from societal harmony to election outcomes, with viral fake content often spreading faster than verified information due to emotional triggers.
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nCERT also draws attention to a rise in online scams, phishing attacks, cyberbullying, blackmail, and identity theft, particularly targeting women and children. These threats not only cause emotional trauma but also expose deeper vulnerabilities in society.
To counteract these risks, nCERT advises users to:
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Use strong, unique passwords and enable multi-factor authentication
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Avoid sharing personal data unnecessarily
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Turn off location tracking features
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Adjust privacy settings on social platforms
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Be skeptical of emotionally charged viral content
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Take screenshots as evidence of suspicious activity
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Report cyber incidents to authorities like FIA-NCCIA, PTA, and nCERT
The advisory also warns of the mental health impact of algorithm-driven content and addictive scrolling behavior, especially among youth.
Citizens are encouraged to think critically before sharing, pause before posting, and actively safeguard their digital presence. By fostering ethical online behavior and remaining vigilant, users can help create a safer and more responsible digital space in Pakistan.
