World | Pakistan
Beware of sending provocative e-mails, SMS
Sending indecent and provocative emails or SMS is now a punishable offence in Pakistan and violators can be jailed up to 14 years under the Cyber Crime Act, Gulf News has learnt.
- By Ashfaq Ahmed, Chief Reporter
- Published: 23:09 July 13, 2009
- Overseas Pakistanis will be liable to be deported to Pakistan in case they send indecent and provocative emails or SMS.
- Image Credit: Gulf News Archive
Dubai: Sending indecent, provocative and 'ill-motivated' e-mails or SMS is now a punishable offence in Pakistan and violators can be jailed up to 14 years under the Cyber Crime Act, Gulf News has learnt.
Overseas Pakistanis will be liable to be deported to Pakistan in case they violate the new law, according to a senior official in the Ministry of Interior.
The Pakistan government has also entered into an agreement with the Interpol to identify e-mail addresses and websites registered abroad that are being used for malicious campaigns against the government.
A senior official at the Pakistan Consulate in Dubai said the Interpol would aid in the deportation of Pakistanis found involved in cyber crime.
"The Pakistan government can also request action against foreign nationals or companies if they are involved in any provocative campaign against Pakistan or the civilian government. We can request the relevant government to take action against such elements abroad," he added.
"The new law was introduced by the government to stop the onslaught of negative propaganda campaign through this 'alternate media' against the civilian government and the armed forces, especially President Asif Ali Zardari," the official said.
Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency's (FIA) Cyber Crime Cell will trace or block such SMSes and e-mails and take action against the violators..
The FIA will book offenders under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Ordinance.
All internet service providers will regularly be checked by the FIA.
Meanwhile, an official told Gulf News that neither the FIA nor did the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has a system to screen such communications in bulk.
"FIA will launch investigation against the accused only after receiving complaints as they are able to track down individuals or companies who send such SMS or e-mails," he said.
Under this law a violator faces imprisonment up to 14 years, besides confiscation of his or her property.
Cases will be referred to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes tribunals being set up in major cities.
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