Pakistani Govt Asks Social Media Platforms to Block Terror Group Accounts

The Pakistani government has called on global social media companies to immediately block accounts run by banned terrorist groups that are spreading propaganda online.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry urged platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and Telegram to take action.

“We’re asking social media operators to help block and remove these accounts, stop mirror accounts, and share user details with authorities,” said Chaudhry.

He emphasized that these accounts are being run by individuals and organizations banned not only in Pakistan but also in the US, UK, and by the United Nations.

Use AI to Detect & Block

Chaudhry requested that social media platforms use AI-based tools to detect and auto-block duplicate (mirror) accounts used by terrorist groups. He also highlighted the use of WhatsApp Channels by extremists to push hate content and harmful narratives.

This move is part of Pakistan’s National Action Plan (NAP), which outlines measures against terrorism, including actions against those spreading extremist content on media and digital platforms.

481 Terror-Linked Accounts Identified

Barrister Aqeel Malik, Minister of State for Law and Justice, revealed that authorities have found 481 social media accounts linked to proscribed terror groups. These have already been reported to the respective platforms.

He urged social media companies to share account data with Pakistani authorities and cooperate in tracking and blocking more such accounts using AI.

“We welcome tech companies to set up offices in Pakistan to strengthen coordination with law enforcement,” Malik added.

New Digital Threats Emerging

Malik mentioned that groups like the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP), Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) have active online presences, despite being banned globally.

The government warned that these online activities are not just a threat to Pakistan but also to global security, as terrorists are now using social media to recruit and spread propaganda using both real and fake identities.

“Pakistan remains committed to fighting terrorism both on the ground and online,” officials stated.