A recent cyber patrolling report by law enforcement agencies has highlighted the negative use of social media to promote anti-state narratives and sectarianism.
The report, covering the past 20 days, identified 19 trends fueling anti-state propaganda and sectarian riots. Most of the propaganda focused on incidents in Parachinar and foreign policy.
According to the report, six of these trends were operated anonymously, targeting the country's foreign policy. Moreover, trends also promoted civil disobedience and exploited the political differences within the country.
The report revealed that accounts propagating these trends were traced to foreign locations. A staggering 13 trends aimed at promoting sectarian riots were identified during the period, with most indulging in propaganda on the Parachinar incident.
The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) also identified 42,848 websites hosting controversial content, including 11,132 sites blocked last year by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). In addition, 2,197 accounts involved in disseminating provocative content were traced, and 366 social media reports were received daily regarding such activities.
The authorities have called for stricter monitoring of social media platforms to curb the misuse and prevent attempts to destabilize societal harmony.
