Cabinet Approves Stricter Cybercrime Rules to Control Social Media Content

The federal cabinet has approved the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) rules to take stern action against cybercrime actors, propaganda, harassment, and individuals who spread rumors on social media.

Individuals involved in cybercrimes, including attacks on state institutions and public figures, could face punishments ranging from 5 to 15 years in prison and heavy fines.

After 11 months of planning, the NCCIA has become fully operational with the authority to coordinate with international organizations to combat cybercrime.

The agency was established by the caretaker government in December 2023. With the new rules in place, the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Cybercrime Wing has been abolished, and its officers will serve in the NCCIA for a year.