Technology
Reason behind social media slowdown in Pakistan revealed
The trial run of a new firewall had slowed down social media in Pakistan, officials privy to the development confirmed,
This has sparked fears about the future of internet-based Businesses in the country. However, officials assured us that internet traffic would return to normal once the trial concluded.
The government has allocated over Rs30 billion from the development budget for the acquisition and installation of this filtering system.
The allocation was made to the Ministry of Information Technology (MoIT), but the project execution is being handled by another authority, reducing MoIT’s role to merely an intermediary.
An official revealed that work on the firewall has been ongoing since January, including the purchase and installation of the system, which is now being commissioned. This commissioning phase is expected to take several weeks. When asked if the national filter would impact internet-based Businesses, the official mentioned it might pose a subtle threat but clarified that these Businesses are not the primary target.
Another official stated that the primary aim is to curb the reach of social media influencers who are perceived by the government to be spreading fake news. The goal is to reduce their influence by blocking or limiting the visibility of their content. Influencers are already being targeted under the Prevention of Electronic Crime Act 2016, with dedicated courts set up to handle related cases.
-
Technology8h ago
Save $300 on the new OM System OM-1 Mark II
-
Technology8h ago
Strange compound used to treat cancer can extract rare-earth metals from old tech at 99% efficiency
-
Technology14h ago
ChatGPT isn’t 'hallucinating' — it's just churning out BS
-
Technology14h ago
Next-gen quantum computers could be powered using chip with high-energy lasers made 10,000 times smaller
-
Technology15h ago
Tagging seals with sensors helps scientists track ocean currents and a changing climate
-
Technology16h ago
Expert warns rapid AI growth could trigger global economic crises
-
Technology1d ago
Research reveals Komodo dragons use Iron-coated teeth to hunt
-
Technology1d ago
Russia 'killing' climate, activists say ahead of court decision