A new propaganda tactic is emerging on social media, where fabricated statements are attributed to opponents and presented in the graphics of well-known news outlets or TV channels. This approach can easily damage a person’s reputation and spark harsh criticism without fact-checking.

In Pakistan, this tactic is being used to manipulate public opinion and worsen internal and external vulnerabilities. Recently, two fake screenshots attributed to @SHABAZGIL, a former key government figure, circulated online, sparking controversy.

The screenshots falsely appeared to show Gill defending @RichardGrenell, a newly appointed advisor to the US President, who has been at the centre of a heated debate regarding his views on homosexuality

However, @siasatpk the platform where one screenshot originated, issued a clarification stating it was fake. Shahbaz Gill also denied the statement attributed to him on @gnnhdofficial.

This incident highlights the dangers of unchecked propaganda on social media, where false information can spread quickly, harming individuals and communities.

The rise of disinformation on social media is a global concern. According to the United Nations, disinformation involves “false information created and spread to harm people, institutions, and interests.”

Disinformation can incite violence, escalate crises, distort electoral processes, or encourage conspiracy theories.

In Pakistan, laws enacted to counter disinformation have stifled freedom of expression, potentially increasing vulnerability by limiting debate and increasing polarization.

The need of the hour is to balance counter-disinformation laws with the basic human right of freedom of expression.”