The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has issued new regulations for online gaming, aimed at protecting children and young people from the risks associated with this activity. The regulations, effective from June 12, 2023, encompass several key aspects to ensure the safety of users.
Age restrictions are a crucial component of the new regulations. Online gaming companies will now obligated to verify the age of their users and prohibit individuals under the age of 18 from creating accounts or accessing games intended for adults. This measure aims to prevent young users from being exposed to content that may not be suitable for their age group.
Content restrictions also form part of the new regulations. Online gaming companies has required to implement filters to remove harmful content that could negatively impact children and young people. This includes content that is violent, sexual, or discriminatory, further enhancing the safety of online gaming environments.
To promote responsible gaming habits, online gaming companies must now set time limits for their users. Players has restricted from playing games for extended periods by enforcing specific daily time limits. This measure helps prevent excessive gaming and ensures users allocate time to other activities.
Recognizing the important role of parents, the PTA mandates that online gaming companies provide parental controls. These controls empower parents to manage and restrict their children’s access to gaming content, giving them the ability to set limits and promote a healthy balance between gaming and other activities.
The PTA asserts that these new regulations are essential in safeguarding children and young people from the potential risks associated with online gaming. Furthermore, the PTA highlights that the rules will actively promote responsible gaming practices in Pakistan, encouraging a positive gaming culture.
The implementation of these regulations has garnered support from parents and child welfare organizations, who believe they will significantly contribute to protecting children and young people. However, some gaming companies have expressed concerns regarding the feasibility of implementing the laws and potential negative impacts on their businesses.
To address these concerns and facilitate compliance, the PTA has committed to working closely with gaming companies. They will provide assistance and guidance in implementing the new regulations effectively. Additionally, the PTA intends to monitor the implementation process to ensure the rules genuinely protect children and young people.
The introduction of these new regulations represents a substantial step forward in safeguarding against the risks associated with online gaming. By effectively shielding children and young people from harm, these rules will foster responsible gaming practices in Pakistan.
Complementing the new regulations, the PTA has also issued guidelines for parents and guardians. These guidelines has designed to assist parents in understanding the risks associated with online gaming and equip them with strategies to protect their children effectively.
The guidelines emphasize the importance of open communication between parents and children about online gaming risks and how to stay safe. Parents are advised to establish clear rules regarding the amount of time their children can spend playing online games and the types of games they can access. Furthermore, it is recommended that parents actively monitor their children’s online gaming activities to ensure they are engaging in safe and responsible behavior. By serving as role models, parents can set a positive example of responsible online behavior for their children.
The PTA’s new regulations and accompanying guidelines are invaluable resources for parents and guardians. By following these guidelines, parents and guardians can effectively safeguard their children from the risks associated with online gaming, ultimately promoting a safer gaming environment.
