Digital Rights: Are We Truly Free Online?

Digital rights are an essential part of human freedoms in the 21st. They include the ability to express opinions online, access information, protect personal data, and communicate securely. As technology advances with time and governments introduce new regulations, finding the balance between online safety and individual freedoms becomes more and more important with every passing day.

Like the rest of the world, Pakistan has also seen a drastic rise in Internet usage in recent years. The conversation around digital rights has now gained particular importance with the introduction of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and its recent amendments. While the main goal of these measures is to address cybercrime and misinformation, they have also become the focus of new discussions about regulation, privacy, and access in the country’s growing digital landscape.

The key question here is; is our digital freedom truly in our hands?

The State of Digital Rights in 2025

Pakistan’s digital governance framework is significantly different to what it used to be just a few years ago. It has undergone significant changes over the past decade. The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), first introduced in 2016, was originally passed to deal with online offences such as hacking, harassment, and identity theft. However, in 2025, major amendments were introduced to update the law in light of emerging challenges like misinformation and online scams.

One of the key additions in the amended PECA focuses on regulating “false or fake information” that may cause public disorder or panic. It carries penalties of up to three years imprisonment or a fine of Rs. 2 million. Additionally, the government has also formed new bodies, such as the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) and the Social Media Protection Authority, to enforce these laws and monitor online content.

For those among us that take our freedoms very seriously, these acts may seem like a full-scale invasion on our privacy. However, it is important to note that these developments aim to improve cybersecurity and prevent the spread of misinformation. There is another side to the story though; these amendments lead to ongoing discussions about how to ensure that legitimate expression and online creativity are preserved within a regulated framework, that allows the delivery of justice without external manipulation.

Privacy and Data Protection

With increased internet use, data privacy and surveillance have become hot topics. Pakistan, like multiple nations, is also actively investing in its cybersecurity. It has introduced advanced systems such as the Lawful Intercept Management System (LIMS) and the Web Monitoring System (WMS 2.0) to monitor network activity and improve national cybersecurity.

Officials state that such systems help protect users against digital threats. Nonetheless, experts on digital privacy and security highlight the need for transparent guidelines and independent oversight to ensure these tools are used strictly for lawful investigations and not to restrict general access or online expression.

Freedom of Expression

Freedom of expression online is a complex issue worldwide, and Pakistan is no exception. Under the amended PECA, sharing or posting information that is considered false or misleading may lead to legal consequences.

Authorities maintain that these laws are necessary to combat misinformation, especially during sensitive political or social situations. However, media professionals and advocacy groups continue to call for clearer definitions and safeguards to ensure responsible implementation. Courts have also played an important role in maintaining balance. For example, in 2025, the Islamabad High Court temporarily suspended an order to block several YouTube channels of political commentators.

Access and Equity

Pakistan, despite its numerous challenges, has one of South Asia’s fastest-growing internet user bases. However, connectivity challenges still remain. In rural or remote regions, access can be limited, and occasional service disruptions tend to occur during national events, natural disasters, or even security operations. In such situations, these regions are completely cut off from all major forms of communications, leaving them vulnerable to security and other sorts of risk. Therefore, the government has expressed its intention to modernize digital infrastructure while maintaining a secure online environment.

Maintaining open, stable access to information is seen as vital for education, commerce, and communication, especially in the post-pandemic era. This is becoming increasingly important as more and more citizens move toward digital banking, e-commerce, and online work.

Cybersecurity and Safety

Cybersecurity remains one of Pakistan’s most urgent priorities. The NCCIA, established in 2024, now oversees investigations into cyber offences, digital fraud, and data theft. It has also been granted powers to freeze bank accounts linked to that have been linked to cybercrime under the NCCIA Functional Rules 2025.

The aim is to enhance accountability and strengthen national resilience against cyberattacks. This can only be done through effective coordination with telecom operators and digital service providers. This coordinated effort will be the key to making these acts and measures more effective.

The Legal and Policy Landscape

The PECA framework serves as Pakistan’s main legislative tool for governing online activities. The 2025 amendments have expanded its scope, introducing stricter penalties and new oversight authorities.
To support these laws, institutions such as the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority and the Digital Rights Protection Authority are being developed to manage compliance, registration of digital platforms, and complaint resolution. Officials describe these measures as part of a broader effort to align Pakistan’s digital regulations with international cybersecurity and data protection trends.

Some provincial bodies, such as the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, have recommended further consultation to ensure that future regulations balance safety with free expression.
At a broader level, the ongoing debate reflects the same global challenge: how to protect citizens from harm online while ensuring the internet remains an open space for learning and exchange.

Looking Ahead

Pakistan’s digital world is changing fast, with even bigger shifts coming in the future. As more people get access to the internet and new technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud storage, and e-governance become part of daily life, we’ll need clear and updated rules to protect people’s privacy and ensure transparency.

To move forward, it’s important that the government, private sector, and civil society work together. Building a safer and more open digital environment isn’t just about passing new laws, it’s also about awareness and education. Programs that teach digital literacy, online safety, and responsible use of social media can help people make better choices instead of living in fear of restrictions or bans.

Our courts will also play an important part in shaping this digital future. As new laws are introduced, they’ll continue to interpret and test them to make sure they respect our Constitution and meet international standards.
In short, Pakistan’s digital journey depends on achieving the balance between innovation and protection, freedom and responsibility. If we can achieve that balance, the future of our online space looks promising.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s approach to digital rights illustrates both the promise and the complexity of internet governance. The country has taken clear steps to modernize cybersecurity and regulate online spaces, reflecting global efforts to manage misinformation and crime.

At the same time, ensuring that such regulation respects individual freedoms and fosters innovation will remain an ongoing process. The coming years will likely determine how effectively Pakistan can balance these goals — building a secure yet open digital future for its citizens.