Islamabad (Web Desk): State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry on Monday disclosed that Pakistan has uncovered widespread evidence of paid and coordinated social media campaigns, largely orchestrated through fake accounts based abroad.
He warned that those involved could face legal action if they continue activities that harm the country’s interests.
Speaking at a detailed briefing, the minister said the government had recently provided international media with background information explaining how terrorists and organized networks exploit social media to manipulate public perception in Pakistan.
He appreciated the responsible reporting of leading global newspapers and news channels on the matter.
Talal Chaudhry stressed that while the government fully supports freedom of expression, it must be exercised within the framework of the constitution.
“Freedom of expression is not without responsibility,” he said, emphasizing that no one has the right to insult religious sentiments, malign friendly nations, or defame individuals or institutions under the cover of free speech. He outlined how investigations revealed the creation and sale of artificial online trends through WhatsApp groups and other platforms.
“Evidence showed that individuals are paid small amounts—ranging from a few rupees to mere cents per post—to repeatedly tweet or forward content, sometimes hundreds of times each day,” he said, adding that any of these accounts originate outside Pakistan and are managed by companies using fake identities.
“These accounts are anonymous, often registered in the names of women, news agencies, provinces, or cities, but they do not represent real people,” the minister said, noting that account names are frequently changed according to the campaign, making tracking difficult.
Chaudhry added that these networks have been linked to promoting content for banned terrorist organizations such as the TTP and BLA, as well as other unrelated international causes, demonstrating that these operations are commercially motivated rather than ideological.
“These trends are not natural or organic. They are paid for and managed from outside Pakistan,” he explained.
The minister clarified that the evidence presented was collected directly from the platforms being misused, including temporary WhatsApp groups created to push trends and later deleted to avoid detection. Violations of platform guidelines have already led to account suspensions and other actions.
While making it clear that ordinary citizens are not the target, Talal Chaudhry issued a stern warning:
“Anyone who knowingly participates in paid trends that go against the country may face legal consequences.”
In response to questions, Talal Chaudhry confirmed that most accounts are fake, and while privacy laws limit access to IP addresses and ownership information, Pakistan is coordinating with social media companies and foreign governments to address the issue.
He reaffirmed the country’s strong stance against terrorism worldwide, highlighting Pakistan’s long-standing role in the global fight against extremism.
The minister concluded by stressing that online controversies do not reflect genuine public sentiment.
“This is not popularity. It is a money-driven mechanism operated through fake accounts across the world,” he said, adding that Pakistan will continue to collaborate with international partners to curb such activities.