Unmasking the Truth: Tackling Misinformation and Disinformation in Pakistan's Digital Age
As a young woman growing up in Pakistan, social media has always been a double-edged sword for me. It’s where I find my news, connect with friends, and amplify causes I care deeply about. But it’s also where I’ve encountered some of the most troubling aspects of the digital world—misinformation and disinformation. These aren’t just abstract terms or problems for experts to dissect; they are issues that seep into my daily life, shaping how I interact with the world and, sometimes, how the world interacts with me.
I still remember the first time I came across a piece of misinformation that felt personal. A false story was circulating online about a public figure I admired, twisting their words and portraying them in a way that contradicted everything I knew about them. Seeing the sheer number of people believing and sharing it was unsettling. It made me wonder: What happens when this kind of falsehood is directed at someone like me?
Navigating the Murky Waters of Misinformation
It didn’t take long for my fears to materialize. As a young woman active on social media, I’ve faced my share of harassment and bullying, but misinformation adds an entirely different layer of vulnerability. For instance, during a heated debate about women’s rights, I witnessed how false narratives were weaponized to discredit activists, including myself. In some cases, fabricated claims were used to silence women who dared to speak out, leading to online mob attacks that spilled into real-life threats.
One of the most harrowing examples of this dynamic in Pakistan was the aftermath of the PCG College rape case. False narratives about the victim’s background flooded social media, skewing public perception and making it harder for justice to prevail. It was clear that misinformation wasn’t just an online nuisance; it had real-world consequences for victims and their families (Geo News).
The Inspiration behind "Digital Dastak"
These experiences inspired me to organize Digital Dastak, a town hall dedicated to addressing the pervasive spread of misinformation and its impact on women, youth, and marginalized communities. I wanted to create a space where people could come together to unpack these issues, share their stories, and brainstorm solutions.
The event was a blend of panel discussions, real-life testimonials, and actionable strategies. One segment, Women Kahaniyan, stood out for me. Women shared their experiences of harassment and how false information amplified their trauma. One speaker recounted how doctored images of her were circulated online after she spoke out about workplace harassment. Her story resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the urgent need for accountability in digital spaces.
Key Highlights from the Town Hall
Understanding the Difference between Misinformation and Disinformation:
Panelists stressed the distinction between misinformation (unintentional) and disinformation (intentional deceit). Both have severe implications, from election tampering to obstructing justice in high-profile cases like the PCG incident.
Digital Literacy as a Lifeline:
A recurring theme was the importance of equipping young people with tools to identify credible sources and verify information. One participant shared how learning basic fact-checking techniques had changed the way they consumed news, making them more discerning and less susceptible to false narratives.
The Role of Tech Companies and Policy Makers:
Experts pointed out that while Pakistan’s Cybercrime Act provides a legal framework to address online harassment, enforcement remains weak. Additionally, social media platforms must do more to moderate content and ensure community guidelines are enforced effectively (Digital Rights Foundation).
The Emotional Toll on Women and Marginalized Groups:
Stories from the Women Kahaniyan session underscored the mental and emotional distress caused by targeted misinformation campaigns. One speaker described how false allegations had cost her a job opportunity, while another spoke about the anxiety of living under constant digital surveillance
Moving Forward: A Personal Commitment
Reflecting on these discussions, I’ve realized how essential it is for individuals like me to take proactive steps. Digital literacy is no longer optional—it’s a survival skill. By learning to critically evaluate sources and sharing this knowledge with my peers, I hope to create ripple effects in my community.
But personal efforts alone aren’t enough. We need a society-wide commitment to truth and accountability. This includes robust policies, better content moderation by tech companies, and educational initiatives to empower young people.
Through Digital Dastak and beyond, I’m committed to fostering a digital environment where everyone—regardless of gender, age, or background—can engage safely and meaningfully. As we continue to navigate the challenges of misinformation and disinformation, I believe that collective action and digital literacy will light the path toward a more inclusive and informed Pakistan.
References :
• https://digitalrightsfoundation.pk/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Covid-19.pdf
• Understanding Pakistan’s Cybercrime Laws. Digital Rights Foundation.
• Geo News. PCG College Incident and Misinformation.
• GeoNews.{https://www.geo.tv/latest/569023-28-injured-as-students-stage-protest-against-alleged-rape-of-lahore-college-girl }
• https://thefridaytimes.com/07-Jan-2023/journalists-facing-digital-threats-in-pakistan firdaytimes.
• The Express Tribune. COVID-19 and the Role of Misinformation in Pakistan. The Express Tribune.
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2184746/fake-cures-risky-rumours-online-coronavirus-misinformation-claims-lives
