Cyber Crime Laws in Pakistan | PECA Legal Help – Yahya Rashid & Co.

The digital world enables business and connection — but it also creates new risks. From identity theft and online defamation to cyber terrorism and data breaches, Pakistan’s cyberspace demands strong legal response. At Yahya Rashid & Co. we specialise in cyber crime defence and victim advocacy under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (PECA).

⚖️ What is PECA?

PECA criminalizes a wide range of electronic offenses including cyber harassment, online defamation, hacking/unauthorized access, child exploitation, cyber terrorism, electronic fraud and forgery. Penalties can reach up to 14 years’ imprisonment and fines of Rs. 50 million.

🔍 Common Cyber Crimes We Handle

CategoryOffenses
Cyber Harassment & DefamationFalse content, threats, blackmail, digital slander
Sexual Exploitation & Child AbuseExplicit content sharing, child pornography
Hacking & Unauthorized AccessData theft, DDoS, intrusion, spyware/malware
Online Fraud & ForgeryPhishing, impersonation, electronic manipulation
Cyber TerrorismAttacks on critical systems, national security threats
Telecom FraudSIM misuse, spoofing, interception, device tampering

💼 Our Cyber Law Services

  • Filing complaints with FIA (NR3C) & follow-through
  • Representation in High Courts & Trial Courts
  • Digital evidence preparation & preservation
  • Injunctions to remove unlawful online content
  • Defence in false accusations under PECA
  • Compliance advisory for social platforms, e-commerce & IT firms

🌐 Why Yahya Rashid & Co.?

  • 25+ years of litigation experience; specialised PECA team
  • Proven results in cyber crime matters; strict confidentiality
  • Serving clients across Pakistan & overseas Pakistanis
Facing a digital threat or accusation? Get legal help now.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is PECA 2016 and why is it important?
PECA is Pakistan’s primary cyber law covering harassment, hacking, defamation, child pornography and electronic fraud. It provides remedies for victims and penalties for offenders, plus rules for digital evidence.
What are the most common cyber crimes reported?
Social media harassment/blackmail, hacking & data theft, fake profiles/impersonation, online defamation, financial scams, child exploitation and unauthorized device/network access.
How do I file a cyber crime complaint?
Through FIA’s Cyber Crime Wing (NR3C) online or in person. We prepare, submit and track your complaint, and obtain court orders where urgent relief is needed.
What penalties does PECA impose?
Harassment: up to 3 years; hacking/unauthorized access: up to 7 years; child pornography: up to 7 years; cyber terrorism: up to 14 years and fines up to Rs. 50 million.
What if I’m falsely accused?
We provide robust defence: evidence audit, forensic review, bail, quashment where appropriate, and courtroom advocacy to protect your rights and reputation.
Is digital evidence admissible?
Yes—when properly preserved (hashes, metadata, chain of custody). We guide clients to capture and present compliant evidence.
Do you assist businesses and IT companies?
Absolutely—compliance reviews, incident response, takedown strategy, and representation in regulatory actions.

Area-Specific FAQs

Cyber Harassment & Online Defamation
Sections 20–21 address defamation and stalking. We obtain takedowns, injunctions and damages, and file criminal complaints with FIA.
Sexual Exploitation, Blackmail & Child Protection
Section 22 penalizes child sexual content. We ensure victim identity protection and pursue severe criminal penalties for offenders.
Hacking, Unauthorized Access & Data Theft
Sections 3–6 cover access/interference with systems and data. We support forensics, NR3C complaints and corporate actions.
Cyber Terrorism & National Security Offenses
Attacks on critical infrastructure attract up to 14 years. We coordinate with LEAs and represent in specialised courts.
Online Fraud, Forgery & Financial Crimes
Sections 24–25 cover electronic forgery/fraud. We pursue recovery plus civil and criminal remedies.
Cyber Stalking, Identity Theft & Impersonation
Fake profiles and identity misuse are punishable; restraining orders and prosecutions are available.
Telecom Fraud & Device Tampering
Unauthorized SIM issuance, interception and spoofing are offences; we defend/advise individuals and telecom businesses (PTA compliance).
Call WhatsApp