The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has urged parents to take a more active role in protecting children from online risks.
The authority advised families to closely monitor children using mobile phones, tablets and laptops. It also recommended limiting daily screen time to maintain a healthier routine.
According to the PTA, children should balance digital activities with education, entertainment, rest and family time. Parents should also encourage responsible use of online platforms.
PTA Advises Parents to Monitor Children’s Devices
The PTA recommended that children preferably use digital devices under adult supervision. Therefore, parents should remain aware of how and where their children use phones, tablets and laptops.
The authority also advised families to keep digital devices in shared areas of the home. This approach can help parents monitor children’s online activities more closely.
Meanwhile, parents have been encouraged to improve their own understanding of digital platforms. This knowledge can help them guide children about responsible social media and internet use.
Parents Urged to Use Safety Tools
The PTA has also encouraged parents to use parental control software and content filters.
These tools can help block inappropriate material, harmful websites and potentially dangerous online content. At the same time, parents can select age-appropriate settings for their children.
The authority recommended maintaining access to useful educational and recreational content. Therefore, safety controls should support responsible internet use rather than completely restricting children’s digital activities.
Parents can consequently combine supervision with appropriate technical safeguards. This can help children benefit from online resources while reducing exposure to harmful content.
What Does PTA Say About Children Under 16?
The guidance comes amid continuing discussion about children’s access to social media and online safety in Pakistan.
In its response submitted to the Islamabad High Court on October 1, the PTA said it lacks legal authority under its existing jurisdiction to impose mandatory age verification.
The authority also said it cannot restrict social media access for children below 16 years of age under its current legal powers.
Therefore, the PTA’s latest guidance focuses on parental supervision and digital safety rather than mandatory age-based restrictions.
PTA Had Issued Similar Guidance Earlier
The authority issued similar guidance on July 30 regarding children’s social media use.
At that time, the PTA also asked parents to monitor children’s online activities more closely. It encouraged families to make greater use of parental controls and age-appropriate content filters.
The latest guidance reinforces the importance of parental involvement in children’s digital lives. Moreover, the PTA continues to highlight digital awareness and safety tools as important measures.
Parents have consequently been encouraged to remain involved while children use online platforms. The authority says supervision and suitable safety features can help children use the internet more safely.
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