Section 26-A – Online Harassment, Intimidation, and Defamation under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act

ByEditorial Staff
PECA ACT

Overview

Section 26-A of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) criminalizes the use of digital or online means to harass, intimidate, defame, or threaten any individual. This amendment was introduced to strengthen legal protection against online abuse and to ensure accountability for malicious digital conduct.

Definition of the Offence

A person shall be deemed to have committed an offence under Section 26-A if he or she—

  1. Uses social media, email, mobile applications, or any other electronic system to post, transmit, or share false, indecent, or defamatory content targeting an individual or group;
  2. Engages in repeated messages or online behavior intended to cause mental distress, fear, or reputational harm; or
  3. Publishes private information, photographs, or fabricated material without consent for the purpose of humiliation or coercion.

Punishment

  • Any person found guilty of committing the offence under Section 26-A shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to five (5) years, or with a fine which may extend to one million rupees, or with both.
  • In aggravated circumstances, where the act causes serious psychological trauma or affects a woman, child, or journalist performing professional duties, the punishment may extend to seven (7) years.

Legal Proceedings

  • Offences under this section are cognizable and non-bailable.
  • Investigation shall be conducted by the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing.
  • The court may direct removal or blocking of the online content and issue restraining orders to prevent further dissemination.

Purpose and Scope

The introduction of Section 26-A aims to:

  • Protect citizens, particularly women and journalists, from online harassment and smear campaigns;
  • Promote responsible digital communication;
  • Strengthen mechanisms to ensure accountability for online defamation and threats.

Recent Data on PECA Cases

According to reports, 31 cases were registered in North Punjab and 32 in Central Punjab during the current year. Several journalists were also targeted for their old social-media posts, raising concerns over misuse of the law.

Monitoring by Rural Media Network Pakistan

The Rural Media Network Pakistan (RMNP) has monitored the killing of six journalists this year and continues to document digital threats and violations against media practitioners.

Issued by:
Digital Roznama Daily Nawa-i-Ahmedpur Sharqia
📱 0301-7740405 🌐 www.dailynaps.com.pk

Similar Posts