PTA Blocks Over 1.4 Million Links in Nationwide Crackdown on Illegal Online Content

Independent Report
Lahore: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has blocked more than 1.4 million web links and URLs as part of a large-scale crackdown on illegal and harmful digital content. The action was detailed in a comprehensive report submitted to the Lahore High Court.
According to the PTA, the highest volume of blocked content originated from social media platforms including Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and X. TikTok faced the most stringent enforcement, with approximately 94 percent of flagged content removed.
The report stated that over one million links were blocked for obscene and unethical material, while significant action was taken against content deemed anti-state, anti-religion, sectarian, or promoting hatred and violence. Thousands of URLs linked to contempt of court, fake identities, and proxy services were also restricted.
PTA officials said the crackdown aims to safeguard social values, protect national security, and ensure compliance with cyber laws. The authority reaffirmed its commitment to continuous monitoring of digital platforms and decisive action against content violating Pakistan’s legal and ethical standards.