Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said on Thursday that several fake social media accounts were identified during action against the cyber crimes.
Addressing a Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) event, Tarar said the National Cyber Security Policy was being made more effective. "Cyber security is a major challenge, and the government is prepared to confront it", the information minister said.
Tarar said measures had been taken to strengthen the cyber security system to ensure data protection. He said the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) was active in responding to cyber attacks.
The information minister said public awareness and training were essential to prevent cyber attacks. He added that several illegal networks were exposed during action against cyber crimes, adding that the global leaders at the World Economic Forum (WEF) had declared misinformation the biggest challenge.
He maintained that the fake news spread across social media after the Sydney incident.
Responsible use of social media must be promoted
Tarar said that the unnamed media outlet continues to level accusations against Pakistan, adding that more measures will be required to end mass misinformation. "A national-level cyber security awareness campaign will be launched to prevent data leaks," added the the information minister.
"We must maintain balance in emerging technologies. We have established a digital communication department. We are implementing practical strategies to counter fake news, said the Minister of Information," he maintained.
"There is a need to promote responsible use of social media. Pakistan remains a country affected by terrorism," he said.
On the other side, addressing an event, PTA Chairman retired Major General Hafeezur Rehman said the country had a strong cyber security system.
He said effective cyber security measures had been taken in the telecom sector. The PTA chairman said people spent excessive time on social media.
He said cyber fraud affected someone every day, adding that the WhatsApp accounts were hacked and money was demanded.
Rehman maintained that the digitisation was accompanied by several risks, adding that the public awareness was essential to maintain trust in cyber systems.
PTA's advisory on protection of digital footprint
Earlier on Wednesday, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority advised social media users to safeguard their digital footprint. Users should use social media with care and share information responsibly, the PTA said.
The PTA said that every step taken in the online world leaves a digital footprint, adding that the online posts, shares and searches become part of a user’s online identity.
Moreover, the PTA said that this digital identity can have long-term effects on users’ privacy and digital security. The PTA maintained that the users were advised to ensure safe conduct in the digital world.
