Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved a major initiative to address the growing issue of harassment and blackmailing on social media, particularly targeting children and women, by establishing a dedicated Punjab Cyber Crime Unit.During the meeting, it was decided that special mobile units will be set up to facilitate minor boys and girls affected by online harassment and blackmailing, enabling them to lodge complaints without visiting police stations or offices. Victims, especially women and children, will also be able to register complaints through a Virtual Police Station, the Cyber Crime Unit front desk, and the “PKM” mobile application, while ensuring complete confidentiality of their identity.The government has also decided to introduce strict legislation to ensure exemplary punishment for perpetrators involved in social media harassment and blackmailing. In this regard, work has commenced on the initial draft of the Punjab Online Safety Act 2026, which will soon be presented for approval.The meeting further resolved to establish a Cyber Patrol Wing and a Cyber Police Academy under Punjab Police. Additionally, an advanced intelligence system will be introduced for effective social media monitoring and surveillance. The Chief Minister directed the authorities to adopt a proactive approach to curb cybercrime and ensure robust data protection measures.Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif stated that cybercrime poses a serious challenge and safeguarding the younger generation remains a top priority. She emphasized that modern technology and tools will be fully utilized to protect young girls from blackmailing, while urging parents to closely monitor their children’s social media usage.She further asserted that no individual has the right to intrude upon the privacy of others and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to bringing cyber criminals to justice and setting a strong precedent.
