Archives for July 2025

July 31, 2025 - Comments Off on Courier Scam exploiting Digital Platforms busted by Lahore Police 

Courier Scam exploiting Digital Platforms busted by Lahore Police 

Lahore Police, with the assistance of InDrive, successfully busted an elaborate scam operation which was using data from ride-sharing platforms to target and defraud customers. The gang’s ring-leader used prior access to driver records and manipulated courier verification requirements to swindle unsuspecting customers from their possessions.. Materials worth hundreds of thousands of rupees, including electronics and clothing items were reportedly recovered in this crackdown.

July 31, 2025 - Comments Off on CTD Makran detain a 7-year old boy under the Anti-Terrorism Law

CTD Makran detain a 7-year old boy under the Anti-Terrorism Law

The Counter-Terrorism Department in Makran recently filed a case against a 7-year old boy from Gwadar, accusing him of sharing a controversial speech made by Human Rights activist Gulzar Dost on his TikTok account. Authorities insist this act falls under the Anti-Terrorism Law as Mr Dost is placed in the 4th Schedule of the provincial government- that is, he is suspected of harboring links to terrorist organizations. The accused has remained under detention for almost two weeks at the time of writing.

July 30, 2025 - Comments Off on Pakistan Announces its 1st National AI Policy after Cabinet Approval

Pakistan Announces its 1st National AI Policy after Cabinet Approval

The long-awaited National AI Policy has been formally approved by the Federal Cabinet. Meant to facilitate an AI ecosystem in the country, the policy sets out the governance and regulatory framework through which private actors and public entities can make use of AI to streamline and grow their effectiveness. Key highlights from this policy include the creation of a national-level AI Venture Fund, scholarships and training programs, and cybersecurity measures. The new policy represents the state’s wide-ranging ambitions towards digitization, but raises significant concerns around ethical use and privacy regulations- particularly in the absence of a Data Protection law.

July 29, 2025 - Comments Off on YouTube rolls out new AI Technology designed to identify underage users by monitoring their behavior

YouTube rolls out new AI Technology designed to identify underage users by monitoring their behavior

YouTube is set to roll out a new AI-powered age estimation tool to better identify users under 18 and protect them from harmful content.  The new system will rely on extensive monitoring of viewing habits, including the ways in which individuals engage with content, in order to independently verify user age. If flagged as underage, said users will face limited ad targeting and restricted access to age sensitive content. According to YouTube, the feature is currently being piloted in the U.S and already operates in some unspecified international markets.

July 29, 2025 - Comments Off on TikTok collaborates with NDMA to combat Flood-related misinformation in Pakistan

TikTok collaborates with NDMA to combat Flood-related misinformation in Pakistan

TikTok has introduced a dedicated search guide in Pakistan to counter misinformation during the ongoing monsoon flood season, aiming to ensure users receive real-time updates from verified and reliable sources. When users search for flood-related content, they will now see a banner directing them to credible sources, including the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). The guide explains what qualifies as a tragic event such as natural disasters or personal loss and provides guidance on mental health support, as well as responsible content sharing and reporting.

July 29, 2025 - Comments Off on PM calls for National Unity ahead of Digital Transformation Plan

PM calls for National Unity ahead of Digital Transformation Plan

This week’s chaired meeting with the Prime Minister involved a thorough review of the Government’s Cashless and Digital Economy initiative. The Prime Minister outlined the federal government’s Digital Transformation Plan, which promotes digital payments and fund transfers through supportive policy measures, urging full cooperation from all provincial governments. This highlighted the importance for meaningful, ongoing consultation with a number of stakeholders to ensure the success and sustainability of said initiative.

July 28, 2025 - Comments Off on Police take action as video of assault of a young girl goes viral on social media

Police take action as video of assault of a young girl goes viral on social media

Kasur police arrested a man who was captured on video abusing a young girl in Shah Inayat Colony, Kasur district. The video went viral, causing nationwide outrage and calls for immediate police action. As per Kasur’s District Police Officer Muhammad Isa Khan, the suspect was apprehended in an injured state following an exchange of gunfire when he waved a pistol while attempting to flee. The DPO emphasized that, under the vision of the Punjab Chief Minister, sexual abuse of women and children would not be tolerated.

July 27, 2025 - Comments Off on OpenAI CEO Warns Against Using ChatGPT for Therapy

OpenAI CEO Warns Against Using ChatGPT for Therapy

CEO Sam Altman has cautioned users, especially young people, against relying on ChatGPT for therapy or any personal advice. This is due to AI systems lacking legal privilege to provide such advice unlike licensed professionals such as therapists, lawyers and doctors. OpenAI also lacks appropriate privacy protections, which threatens user anonymity and data. Employees have access to chat logs, and this can severely compromise a user’s privacy. Altman advocated for creating AI-specific privacy standards equivalent to doctor‑patient confidentiality before more people entrust AI with their sensitive information

July 27, 2025 - Comments Off on NCCIA charges YouTubers for spreading misinformation about 9 May Trials

NCCIA charges YouTubers for spreading misinformation about 9 May Trials

Federal authorities have moved against around 50 YouTubers and social media activists amid the Supreme Court‑mandated proceedings related to the May 9 trials. Through the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), notices have been issued alleging that these channels  distributed false and negative propaganda about cases pertaining to the 9 May protests. The NCCIA has shortlisted these accounts and is conducting a first round of inquiries; individuals who fail to satisfy the agency’s concerns may face formal legal action.

July 27, 2025 - Comments Off on Pakistan pursues AI Collaboration with Chinese tech firms

Pakistan pursues AI Collaboration with Chinese tech firms

Federal IT and Telecommunication Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja recently spoke at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai, where key Chinese tech firms, including PeaceCable International Network were briefed to help advance Pakistan’s digital infrastructure. Discussions were held related to launching an AI skills exchange programme for Pakistani youth, forging partnerships with Pakistan’s National IT Board, and advancing inclusive joint ventures to boost technological integration in Pakistan.