Posts and Telecommunications and Information Technology Minister Faqir Mahbub Anam announced today that the government is moving to amend the Cyber Security Act to strengthen coordination with international technology platforms for the removal of character-assassination content from social media. The Prime Minister has constituted a five-member cabinet committee to examine the issue, which is expected to take a decision shortly.
Challenges with Social Media Platforms
Minister Anam highlighted that while international social media platforms like YouTube and TikTok generally cooperate in removing content that threatens national security, public order, or religious sentiments, they have been comparatively reluctant to remove content that defames or maligns individuals. The government, through the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), has held several rounds of discussions with these platforms but has yet to achieve the desired level of cooperation in removing defamatory content targeting individuals.
Proposed Amendments to Cyber Security Act
To address this issue, the government has taken initiatives to formulate time-bound content takedown agreements and related policy guidelines with international technology companies. The proposed amendments to the Cyber Security Act aim to explicitly recognize AI-generated or AI-manipulated defamatory content as an offence, enhance penalties, and incorporate a clear legal definition of defamation into the law.
The revised law would also cover the dissemination of false, distorted, or misleading information intended to deceive or harm individuals, institutions, or the state. It will make provisions for the prompt removal of rumours, misinformation, and defamatory content more explicit.
Strengthening Cyber Security Services
In addition to legal amendments, the government has strengthened cyber security services by establishing cyber security help desks at district and upazila levels, forming “Teenage Cyber Crime Prevention Committees,” and introducing a “Cyber Incident Reporting System.” These measures are intended to provide better support and resources for addressing cyber threats and incidents.
Significance and Implications
The initiatives announced by Minister Anam are significant for Bangladesh as they aim to protect individuals from online defamation and misinformation. By enhancing cooperation with global platforms and updating the Cyber Security Act, the government seeks to create a safer online environment and ensure that defamatory content is promptly removed. This move is expected to have a positive impact on public trust in social media and help maintain social harmony.
