PTA Blocks 469 Mobile Apps for Unlawful Content Under PECA Act

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has blocked a total of 469 mobile applications based on complaints received from stakeholder organizations and the general public, according to a document of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication.

The blocked applications include 435 Android apps and 34 Apple apps, which were categorized as containing content against the glory of Islam, indecent or immoral material, and fraudulent activities.

The authority’s actions are governed by Section 37 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, which grants PTA the power to remove or block online content if deemed necessary for various reasons, including national security, public order, and decency.

Specifically, Section 37 outlines that the PTA can take such measures in the interest of the Glory of Islam, the integrity or security of Pakistan, contempt of court, and in relation to content that promotes hate speech, defamation, child pornography, and other offenses. This section serves as a legal basis for the authority’s interventions in the digital space.

Clause 37 (1) of PECA 2016 specifically empowers the PTA to act against unlawful online content that poses a threat to the security, morality, and public order of Pakistan. The clause mandates the blocking or removal of content that is considered detrimental to the glory of Islam or the security and integrity of Pakistan. This provision has been central to PTA’s approach in addressing complaints about online platforms, ensuring that content remains within the bounds of the country’s social and moral standards.

Further regulatory guidance is provided under Section 37 (2) of PECA, which details the rules and procedures for content removal. The Federal Government, in October 2021, approved the Removal and Blocking of Unlawful Online Content (Procedure, Oversight, and Safeguard) Rules, which outline the safeguards, processes, and mechanisms that the PTA must follow. These rules ensure that the authority’s actions are conducted transparently and are subject to oversight, providing a structured approach to the removal or blocking of content.

According to the IT ministry, the blocking of 469 applications reflects a broader strategy to curb content deemed harmful, protect public decency, and uphold the country’s moral and ethical standards.