Senate introduces bill to set minimum age for social media users at 16

A new bill has been introduced in the Senate proposing 16 years as the minimum age to use social media platforms in Pakistan.

According to the bill, social media companies will be legally required to prevent users under 16 from creating accounts. Violations could result in fines ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 5 million. While individuals who assist minors in creating accounts may face up to 6 months in jail and similar fines.

The bill also empowers the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to block underage accounts and take measures to prevent minors from signing up on social platforms.