In a surprising move, the federal cabinet has reversed its stance on the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) rules, which were designed to empower authorities to take action against cybercriminals, individuals spreading propaganda, harassment, and rumors on social media. This decision came following a recommendation from the Cabinet Committee on Legislative Affairs, with the Interior Ministry officially notifying the Ministry of IT of the cabinet’s decision.
The revocation of these rules has raised concerns about the government’s commitment to tackling cybercrime effectively. Sources indicate that the NCCIA, established by the caretaker government in December 2023 to collaborate with international organizations in the fight against cybercrime, will no longer have the regulatory framework needed to operate as intended.
Interestingly, the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) cybercrime wing has been reactivated after being disbanded just a day earlier. This swift action reflects the government’s ongoing struggle to manage cybercrime legislation and enforcement effectively.
The cancellation of the NCCIA rules and the reactivation of the FIA’s cybercrime unit highlights the complexities surrounding cybersecurity governance in Pakistan and raises questions about the future of coordinated efforts against cyber threats.
