Pakistan Launches ‘Surfsafe’ Application to Combat Cyber Extremism

Pakistan Launches ‘Surfsafe‘ Application to Combat Cyber Extremism. This App allow users to report websites that is promoting fake news and extremism that spreads hatred in society. Pakistan Launches ‘Surfsafe‘ Application to Combat Cyber Extremism.

This news is disclosed by VOA, who revealed that Surfsafe is developed by National Counter Terrorism Authority- NACTA. This app is launched for both Android and iOSdevice.

Pakistan Launches ‘Surfsafe’ Application to Combat Cyber Extremism

Despite of cyber crime laws, many people are spreading hatred in Pakistan by posting extremist content on social media platforms. However its seems with the launch of Surfsafe App, the number of such fake websites and content will reduce.

While telling about Surfsafe app,  NACTA Director Ehsan Ghani revealed that:

Strict enforcement of cybercrime laws is absolutely necessary to overcome this massive challenge of online extremism. Surfsafe is a step in that direction

Mr Ehsan further added that: 

“People, unfortunately, at times get attracted to extremist ideologies without even realizing it. Through this program [application], we will create awareness and block online materials involved in provoking extremism in any capacity

Surfsafe app is a part of implementation of National Action Plan which was adopted in 2015 to combat terrorism and extremism. Many social media experts have said that restricting the presence of terrorists on the internet is difficult task as their networks are very strong and tech savvy.

Shahzad Ahmad, Director Bytes for All, a digital rights advocacy group, said:

“We do not think such initiatives of cosmetic nature will do any good. Extremist groups have hired cyber armies in large numbers which are being used to manipulate democratic discourse, stifle political expression and undermine fundamental rights in cyberspace,”

According to Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, 51 million of Pakistan’s population have internet out of total population that is 190 million. Militants group mind washes youth via social media platforms and this alarming situation should be ended soon.

This is a great step on government’s part to stop terrorists activities in an effective way i.e. by launching an App.