President approves controversial changes to cybercrime law

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has signed the controversial amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).

The Parliamentary Reporters Association (PRA) Pakistan and other media organizations protested the bill.

After the approval, a regulatory authority will be established with its own investigation agency and tribunals.

Individuals found guilty of spreading false or misleading information could face up to three years in prison and fines of PKR 2 million ($7,200).

The PRA Pakistan delegation, led by its president, Usman Khan, met with Fazl to express their strong opposition to the bill, which has been widely criticized for imposing severe restrictions on press freedom and online expression.