ISLAMABAD: ( The COW News Digital)-The federal government has stepped up its efforts to clamp down on anti-state narratives circulating on social media, with the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) of Pakistan taking a leading role in tracking, identifying and prosecuting those involved.
According to official data, the NCCIA has registered 356 FIRs across Pakistan against individuals accused of disseminating anti-state propaganda online. In addition, 789 inquiries have been launched to investigate suspects who allegedly targeted state institutions through digital content.
During the recent Marka-e-Haq campaign—when anti-army content gained significant traction on social media—the NCCIA filed 52 cases against individuals reportedly involved in spreading material critical of the armed forces.
Officials further stated that the NCCIA played a crucial role in assisting law enforcement with the investigation into the events of May 9, 2025, where social media was allegedly used to coordinate violent actions. By analyzing digital footprints and past online activity, investigators were able to gather evidence that led to convictions in multiple cities, including Lahore, Sargodha, and Mianwali.
In response to the growing misuse of online platforms, several Joint Investigation Teams (JITs) have been formed. The NCCIA is also working closely with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to ensure prompt removal of harmful content. Identified accounts involved in such campaigns are regularly reported to social media platforms for blocking.
The agency’s Open Source Intelligence Unit (OSINT) continues to monitor online activity to detect emerging trends in anti-state propaganda. Officials say the goal is to contain the spread of disinformation before it gains momentum.
The government insists that these measures are essential to safeguarding national security and protecting state institutions from increasingly coordinated digital disinformation efforts.
