The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Saturday issued an advisory cautioning citizens against sharing “unverified, inflammatory or misleading information” in light of the recent geopolitical situation.

“In view of the prevailing sensitive national situation, PTA urges all citizens to be responsible while using social media and digital platforms,” the body said, advising citizens not to “share, disseminate, forward or upload information/content which is authentic and based upon official sources and to refrain from spreading rumours and fake news”.

PTA cautioned against sharing fake news or information “liable to legal action in accordance with applicable laws”.

“PTA calls upon all citizens to act with caution, maturity, and a strong sense of national responsibility to help, maintain stability and public confidence,” the statement added.

The statement comes against the backdrop of escalating geopolitical tension in the Middle East, as Israel and the United States launched an attack on Iran on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Pakistan’s armed forces continue to counter the Afghan Taliban regime’s aggression on its western border as part of Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, which was launched against the Afghan Taliban after “unprovoked firing” from across the border.