KARACHI: The Sindh government has decided to seek assistance from the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) to monitor and address fake and misleading information circulating in mainstream and social media.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the Sindh Information Department chaired by Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon. Information Secretary Kashif Gulzar Sheikh, Director General Information Moez Pirzada and other senior officials attended the meeting.
Officials were directed to strengthen monitoring of misinformation and develop an effective media strategy. The department will use modern technology to monitor potentially misleading content on a daily basis.
Memon said efforts to harm any individual or institution through false or misleading information would not be tolerated. He directed officials to establish an effective system for identifying, verifying and responding to fake news in a timely manner.
The senior minister also called for greater cooperation between the Sindh Information Department and the NCCIA. According to the meeting’s decisions, the agency’s assistance will be sought where legal action is required against individuals accused of creating or spreading fake news.
The Sindh government also plans to strengthen communication of its official positions and use modern media platforms to communicate with the public.
The development comes amid increased official attention to online misinformation and social-media content. The NCCIA has recently been involved in investigations concerning allegedly false or malicious online content.