A thorough advise warns Pakistani users to the growing online threats of social media use has been issued by the National Computer Emergency Response Team (nCERT). The “Safe, Diligent, and Responsible Usage of Social Media” recommendation identifies a number of online dangers that prey on people’s trust and ignorance.
There is an urgent need for national-level direction because, as of January 2025, over 66.9 million user identities—or 26.4% of the country’s population—are active on platforms including YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp.
The report lists digital propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation as some of the most urgent dangers. The purpose of these types of modified content is to divide society, undermine public confidence, and cause fear. Such strategies might potentially skew election results in democracies.
nCERT warns about online threats claiming that false information frequently spreads more quickly than confirmed facts, especially when it is intended to elicit strong feelings. Users must therefore use caution while following viral trends, particularly during delicate national or political situations.
The risks posed by online fraud schemes and frauds are also increasing. Phishing websites, phony business offers, and impersonation techniques are increasingly being used by cybercriminals to steal money or personal data. Identity theft, grooming, and cyberbullying commonly target women and children.
In addition to causing long-term psychological pain, these abuses may expose private information to the public through doxxing or blackmail. Such instances affect people as well as represent greater societal vulnerabilities, according to the report.
The advise states that encouraging moral behavior online and implementing strict digital hygiene procedures are the first steps toward prevention. Using distinct passwords, turning on multi-factor authentication, turning off location monitoring, and updating devices frequently are among the suggestions.
Additionally, it advises users to modify privacy settings to restrict the availability of content and snap screenshots of questionable activities for documentation.
One of the main causes of the decline in mental wellbeing, especially among younger audiences, is identified as emotional manipulation through algorithm-driven material and endless scrolling.
Through national organizations like FIA-NCCIA, PTA, and nCERT itself, the advise promotes official reporting of cyber events. People are advised to protect their personal information, think twice before publishing, and challenge content that seems suspect.
Users may make the internet a safer and more reliable place by adopting small but effective behaviors.
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