The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has clarified that cybercrime and online fraud do not fall directly under its responsibility. The authority stated it is not in charge of registering or regulating call centers and software houses either. According to official documents, PTA’s primary role is limited to blocking or removing illegal online content under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).
However, despite its limited role, PTA has taken action against digital fraud by processing 13,185 suspicious links for blocking. Impressively, 98.76% of those links have already been blocked. These efforts show PTA’s commitment to reducing online scams even though it’s not their core duty.
The report further reveals that most blocked links came from major social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and X (formerly Twitter). Facebook alone blocked 1,246 out of 1,357 reported links, while Instagram blocked 39, YouTube 99, and X only 5. These steps were taken after recommendations from SECP, NCCIA, and the State Bank.
In addition to link blocking, PTA continues public awareness campaigns to help users stay safe from online fraud. The authority emphasized that investigating cybercrime and punishing fraudsters is the job of FIA and other concerned agencies. Still, PTA remains active in reporting and preventing harmful digital content.
PTA stressed that collaboration among regulatory bodies is essential for tackling cyber threats. While it cannot carry out legal investigations, it remains committed to supporting other institutions in safeguarding the online space.