Stories by Ramsha Jahangir

What’s happening with the internet in Pakistan?

Amid a smokescreen of explanations, authorities have acknowledged updating a web management system for "increased cyber security".

Published 22 Aug, 2024 10:59am

Online rallies, AI script: New threats loom ahead of 2024 polls

While the use of AI may be cost-effective for social media teams, the dissemination implications may be troubling.

Updated 16 Jan, 2024 10:19am

Hello world! The internet is blocked in Pakistan again, but we are publishing this using a VPN

The stated goal of network shutdowns is to protect citizens. In Pakistan, it’s to protect anyone but civilians.

Updated 15 May, 2023 03:49pm

Try as it may, the state cannot control political discourse online

The PTI’s response to censorship is a lesson on why politics can no longer be constricted.

Updated 01 Apr, 2023 03:10pm

RIDING THE SOCIAL MEDIA TIGER

Does PTI's online presence translate to real support?

Updated 05 Jun, 2022 11:32am

Former PM Imran hosts record-breaking ‘Twitter rally’

Nearly half a million users interact with Imran via Twitter's audio feature; PTI chief says today all "media is blacking us out".

Updated 21 Apr, 2022 11:34am

Race to control govt digital media

Imran's social media team archives PMO Twitter account, new administration orders suspension of digital media wing's activities.

Updated 20 Apr, 2022 01:20pm

SITUATIONER: The curious case of anti-state smear campaigns on Twitter

"Imported Hukoomat Namanzur" hashtag has generated a volume of 17m tweets, an anti-army hashtag has generated over 69,000 tweets.

Updated 14 Apr, 2022 08:28am

Govt’s revised internet rules fuel tension with tech firms

“A consultation process is only meaningful if the recommendations are reflected in the final outcome," says Nighat Dad.

Updated 29 Jun, 2021 07:51am

Fact-checking 101

Officials weaponise what is global editorial practice.

Published 13 Jun, 2021 07:26am

Tech firms urge AGP to release consultation plan on social media rules

Asia Internet Coalition reiterates that the rules make it difficult for tech firms to make their services available in Pakistan.

Updated 09 Feb, 2021 07:33am

Govt actively monitored internet during Covid: PTA

The country’s digital economy has grown enormously during the pandemic as more people are using the internet.

Updated 02 Feb, 2021 07:41am

Indian network lobbying against Pakistan exposed

265 fake media outlets & dubious think tanks, NGOs are involved in producing content designed to undermine Pakistan.

Updated 10 Dec, 2020 06:51pm

Tech firms seek PM’s support for critical changes to new rules

AIC says instead of forcing companies to open local offices, Pakistan should facilitate foreign investment through incentives.

Updated 10 Dec, 2020 08:46am

Tech giants threaten to leave Pakistan if social media rules stay

Asia Internet Coalition regrets absence of consultation earlier promised by govt.

Updated 20 Nov, 2020 10:34am

Users can now file content removal appeal to Facebook’s ‘Supreme Court’

Nighat Dad, founder of the Digital Rights Foundation, is among the 20 people appointed to serve on the Oversight Board.

Updated 23 Oct, 2020 09:25am

Digital jalsas catch on as censorship pushes viewers online

The live broadcast of the PDM rally in Gujranwala drew over 1.9 million viewers on Maryam's Facebook page alone.

Updated 21 Oct, 2020 08:39am

Amid social media bans, creators fear loss of earning

Digital creators are still reaping the impact of the previous ban on YouTube in 2012.

Updated 12 Oct, 2020 08:52am

Facebook removes network of accounts, pages ‘operated from Pakistan’

Network encouraged users to mass-report accounts that were critical of Islam and the Pakistani government, according to findings.

Updated 02 Sep, 2020 11:24am

Govt bans five more apps to curb ‘immoral content’

KARACHI: In its latest move amid the ongoing clampdown on “immoral” content online, the Pakistan...

Published 02 Sep, 2020 07:13am