PTA Advises Parents to Improve Children’s Online Safety
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has advised parents to closely supervise their children’s use of smartphones, tablets and laptops to help protect them from potential online risks.
The authority has recommended that parents set reasonable limits on children’s daily screen time and maintain a healthy balance between digital activities, education, sleep, family time and other activities.
PTA Recommends Parental Supervision
According to the PTA’s latest guidance, children should preferably use internet-connected devices under adult supervision. Parents have also been encouraged to keep devices in common areas of the home instead of allowing children to use them privately for extended periods.
The authority said parents should also improve their own understanding of digital platforms and online services. This can help them guide children about responsible social media use and other potential online risks.
Use Parental Controls and Content Filters
The PTA has encouraged parents to make use of parental control tools, content filters and other built-in safety features available on digital devices and online platforms.
These tools can help parents restrict access to inappropriate websites, harmful material and other content that may not be suitable for children. Parents can also select age-appropriate settings while ensuring that children continue to have access to useful educational and recreational content.
PTA’s Position on Age Restrictions
The guidance comes amid an ongoing discussion in Pakistan about children’s access to social media and online safety.
In a response submitted to the Islamabad High Court on October 1, the PTA stated that it does not currently have the legal authority under its existing jurisdiction to impose mandatory age verification or restrict social media access for children under 16.
The authority had also issued similar guidance on July 30, urging parents to monitor their children’s social media activity and use parental controls and age-appropriate content settings.
The PTA has emphasized that parental supervision, digital awareness and appropriate safety tools can play an important role in helping children use the internet more safely while benefiting from its educational and recreational opportunities.
