Social Media Regulatory Authority to Become Operational Soon: Shaza Fatima

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja has said that Pakistan's Social Media Regulatory Authority will become operational soon, as the government works to strengthen online safety and protect children from growing cyber threats. Speaking about cybersecurity challenges, the minister expressed concern over the increasing presence of young children on social media platforms and other digital environments. She pointed out that children are now spending time in virtual spaces, including the metaverse, where parents may not always know who they are interacting with. According to Shaza Fatima, children are increasingly exposed to cyberbullying and other online risks, making digital safety an important concern for families and authorities. The minister stressed that cybersecurity is no longer limited to protecting computer systems or government networks. Instead, it has become an essential part of safeguarding people's everyday lives. She also highlighted the need to improve mechanisms for reporting cybersecurity incidents so that online threats can be addressed more effectively. Government Working to Strengthen Online Safety and Cybersecurity Awareness Shaza Fatima said the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has been made operational under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), while the Social Media Regulatory Authority is also expected to become functional soon. The minister emphasised that stronger regulatory mechanisms are needed to address emerging online threats, particularly those affecting children and young internet users. She also highlighted Pakistan's progress in cybersecurity over the past two years, claiming that sustained government efforts have helped the country secure a position among leading nations in cybersecurity. Expressing confidence in Pakistan's security institutions, she said there was no doubt about their capabilities. However, she acknowledged that more work is needed to improve cybersecurity awareness among the public. According to the minister, awareness and effective incident-reporting systems are essential for protecting citizens against cyberbullying, online harassment and other digital threats. Her remarks highlight the government's increasing focus on online safety as social media platforms and emerging technologies become a larger part of everyday life. While Shaza Fatima indicated that the Social Media Regulatory Authority would become operational soon, she did not announce a specific launch date. Also read: Shaza Fatima Highlights Pakistan's Digital Transformation at Digital Summit 2026 in South Korea Mobile Phone Taxes Portal Find the PTA Taxes on All Phones on a Single Page using our Taxes Portal. Note: Mobile phone tax rates and calculations fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), not the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). Explore NowFollow us on Google News!