LAHORE:
With an immense number of internet users, Pakistan is among the top countries in the world where cyber bullying has become a major crisis. According to a study done among 25 countries, Pakistan takes 22nd place for the highest rate of cyber bullying. Perpetrators use technology to stalk, harass and abuse targeted people and invade their personal cyber space. Character attacks, trolling, online hate campaigns, account hacking and slut shaming are all form of cybercrimes that have become quite common. Unfortunately, either such crimes are not acknowledged or are taken lightly. And the victims of online bullying continue to suffer. They lose their confidence and often suffer from mental health issues. People might not consider it as a big deal but only the victim himself knows the pain and trauma he has to endure because of it.
In such times of crisis where cyber bullying is at its peak, the PTA should upgrade its policies and improve its services so that the internet becomes a safe space for people to use. Moreover, authorities should impose strict punishments and heavy fines on culprits. This will play a vital role in deterring others.
Published in The Express Tribune, January 31st, 2022.
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