Government Proposes Cybersecurity Council to Safeguard Children Online

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistani government has announced plans to establish a Cybersecurity and Social Media Awareness Council aimed at protecting children from online threats while addressing the issue of misinformation. This initiative was highlighted during a recent seminar where officials emphasized the urgent need for digital education in schools and the importance of safeguarding children from cyberattacks.

The Federal Information Minister underscored the necessity of raising awareness about the dangers of fake news, which he described as a growing concern. He pointed out that children must be educated about the risks associated with their online interactions. The IT Minister echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of parental involvement in monitoring children’s online activities.

With the rise of digital technology, the risks to children in cyberspace have become increasingly alarming. A recent Unicef report revealed that approximately one in 16 children in Pakistan aged 12-17 has experienced some form of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation and abuse within a year, amounting to around 1.5 million affected children. This statistic highlights the critical need for protective measures and educational initiatives.

Looking ahead, the government plans to convene further discussions to finalize the structure and objectives of the proposed council. Stakeholders from various sectors, including education and technology, are expected to contribute to the development of comprehensive strategies aimed at enhancing online safety for children.