Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has warned internet users to be cautious online, saying recent complaints show many people are crossing legal limits without realizing the consequences.
Officials say the authority is closely watching content shared on social media platforms. According to the PTA, material linked to blasphemy or disrespect toward religions is treated as a serious offence. “These are not minor violations,” a senior official said. “Action follows once such content is traced.”
The regulator also pointed to hate speech and posts aimed at national institutions. Officials said many users assume that private accounts or deleted posts protect them. That assumption, they warned, is wrong.
Fake news is another issue that continues to surface. PTA officials say misleading information often spreads faster than verified updates, especially during sensitive situations. In several recent cases, widely shared posts were later found to be false, creating confusion before being taken down.
Separately, the authority announced a new facility for overseas Pakistanis after repeated complaints about SIM cards being blocked while they were abroad. An overseas worker based in Saudi Arabia said his SIM stopped working suddenly, cutting off access to banking messages and family contacts.
To address the issue, the PTA said overseas users can now inform their mobile operators and pay the required charges to keep their SIMs active for a fixed period. The move allows expatriates to retain ownership of their numbers while staying connected with Pakistan.
Following the announcement, users reacted quickly on social media. Many welcomed the step, calling it overdue. Others asked mobile companies to clearly explain the process so subscribers are not left guessing.
