ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has taken action against online gambling by blocking multiple websites and mobile apps linked to betting, the Cabinet Division informed the National Assembly on Wednesday, as per the source.
In a written statement submitted during the assembly session, the Cabinet Division confirmed that the PTA has blocked 184 gambling-related websites and applications so far.
However, it also clarified that taking legal action against individuals involved in such activities falls outside the PTA’s authority.
The statement further added that all government institutions have been instructed not to enter into any agreements with companies connected to gambling operations.
It was also highlighted that the PTA’s power to remove or block illegal online content is restricted by the current regulatory framework.
Separately, the PTA had recently issued a public warning against the posting and sharing of unlawful content on social media platforms.
In its official statement, the authority reminded users that “while freedom of expression is a fundamental right,” its misuse to promote or circulate illegal content would not be tolerated.
The PTA emphasized that sharing material considered blasphemous, offensive to religious beliefs or sacred figures, inciting violence or hatred, targeting national or defense institutions, spreading false propaganda, or distributing obscene and immoral content is a criminal act under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016 and punishable by law.