PECA Act 2016 MCQs

1. Question 1 of 200

   Chapter VII of PECA, 2016 (Sections 50 to 55) is titled:

   A Preventive Measures B Miscellaneous C Establishment of Investigation Agency D Offences and Punishments
2. Question 2 of 200

   Under Section 21(1) of PECA, 2016, offences against the modesty of a natural person (adult victim) are punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

   A Five years B Seven years C Ten years D Three years
3. Question 3 of 200

   Which section of PECA, 2016 sets out the general powers of an authorized officer, such as access to and inspection of information systems?

   A Section 35 B Section 36 C Section 40 D Section 33
4. Question 4 of 200

   Under the Explanation to Section 23 of PECA, 2016, 'malicious code' includes:

   A Source code published on an open-source repository B A computer program or hidden function that damages an information system or data or compromises its performance C Any encrypted file sent over email D Only code written in a foreign programming language
5. Question 5 of 200

   Under the 2025 Amendment to PECA, the NCCIA is authorized to establish its own forensic analysis lab, whose reports are:

   A Admissible in a court of law B Confidential and never disclosed even to courts C Valid only for civil, not criminal, proceedings D Subject to review by a foreign forensic body before use
6. Question 6 of 200

   Under Section 26 of PECA, 2016, 'spoofing' is committed when a person, with dishonest intention:

   A Publishes a satirical parody account clearly marked as fake B Sends bulk marketing emails with consent C Establishes a website or sends information with a counterfeit source believed by the recipient to be authentic D Registers a domain name similar to a competitor's, with permission
7. Question 7 of 200

   Under the 2025 Amendment to PECA, a person aggrieved by a decision of the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA) may appeal to the:

   A Federal Shariat Court B Senate Standing Committee on IT C Provincial High Court directly D Social Media Protection Tribunal (SMPT)
8. Question 8 of 200

   The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 was originally introduced as a bill under which Prime Minister's government?

   A Nawaz Sharif B Shahid Khaqan Abbasi C Shehbaz Sharif D Imran Khan
9. Question 9 of 200

   Under Section 30A of PECA, 2016 (inserted in 2023), a person arrested for a PECA offence must be produced before the Court within:

   A Forty-eight hours B Immediately, with no time limit C Twenty-four hours, excluding travel time D Seventy-two hours
10. Question 10 of 200

    The 2025 Amendment to PECA established the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) primarily to:

    A Replace the Federal Investigation Agency in its entirety B Replace the Cyber Crime Wing of the FIA as the investigation agency for cybercrime C Replace the Supreme Court's appellate jurisdiction D Replace the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority
11. Question 11 of 200

    Under Section 1 of PECA, 2016, the Act also applies to an act committed outside Pakistan if it:

    A Is committed by a foreign national visiting Pakistan only B Is reported to INTERPOL first C Affects a person, property, information system or data located in Pakistan D Involves the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority as a party
12. Question 12 of 200

    Under Section 43(2) of PECA, 2016 (as amended), which group of sections is explicitly listed as non-bailable, non-compoundable, and cognizable by the investigation agency?

    A Sections 25 and 26 B Sections 3, 4 and 5 C Sections 15, 16 and 17 D Sections 10, 21, 22, 22A, 22B and 22C
13. Question 13 of 200

    Journalist bodies in Pakistan, such as the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), protested the 2025 PECA Amendment mainly on the grounds that it:

    A Has no impact on journalism at all B Increases journalists' salaries unfairly C Removes all cybercrime penalties entirely D Threatens press freedom and freedom of expression through vague provisions like 'fake news'
14. Question 14 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Unauthorized copying or transmission of data'?

    A Section 16 B Section 7 C Section 4 D Section 3
15. Question 15 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 empowers the Federal Government to make rules for carrying out the purposes of the Act?

    A Section 51 B Section 52 C Section 53 D Section 29
16. Question 16 of 200

    Considering the maximum imprisonment terms under PECA, 2016 (as amended), which offence carries among the highest possible maximum sentence?

    A Malicious code under Section 23 (up to two years) B Spamming under Section 25 (up to three months) C Child pornography under Section 22 (up to twenty years) D Unauthorized access under Section 3 (up to three months)
17. Question 17 of 200

    The Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2025 was published in the official Gazette, bringing it into force, on:

    A 1 January 2025 B 29 January 2025 C 23 March 2023 D 11 August 2016
18. Question 18 of 200

    Under Section 45 of PECA, 2016, compensation awarded by the Court to a victim, in addition to punishment, is recoverable as:

    A A civil decree only, requiring separate suit B Non-recoverable if the convict appeals C Arrears of land revenue D A criminal fine payable to the state treasury only
19. Question 19 of 200

    Under PECA, 2016, the offence classification excludes liability for a person aged between 10 and 14 years unless they:

    A Have committed the act more than once B Are enrolled in a formal school C Have a prior criminal record D Have attained sufficient maturity of understanding to judge the nature and consequences of their conduct
20. Question 20 of 200

    Which amending Act inserted Sections 22A, 22B, 22C, 24A, 30A-30D, 43A and 45A into PECA, 2016?

    A The Electronic Transactions Ordinance, 2002 B The Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Act, 2023 C The Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2023 (Act No. XXXVII of 2023) D The Personal Data Protection Bill, 2023
21. Question 21 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 provides that the Pakistan Penal Code, 1860 applies to offences under the Act, to the extent not inconsistent with it?

    A Section 27 B Section 2 C Section 28 D Section 50
22. Question 22 of 200

    Under Section 30 of PECA, 2016 (as amended in 2023), besides the FIA, which other force was authorized to take cognizance of offences under the Act?

    A The Rangers B Civil Armed Forces C The Police, who must refer the matter to the FIA for technical opinion and investigation D The Pakistan Coast Guard
23. Question 23 of 200

    The enactment of PECA, 2016 is widely associated with the government's response to which event?

    A The 2018 general elections B The 2010 floods in Pakistan C The Army Public School attack in Peshawar (2014) and the resulting National Action Plan D The privatization of Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited
24. Question 24 of 200

    Under Section 43 of PECA, 2016, an offence under Section 17 (unauthorized issuance of SIM cards) is cognizable only upon:

    A A complaint by any citizen B A written complaint by the Authority C A suo motu FIR by the police D An order of the High Court
25. Question 25 of 200

    The Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2025, which significantly reshaped PECA, is officially cited as:

    A Act No. XL of 2016 B Act No. II of 2025 C Act No. XXXVII of 2023 D Act No. I of 2025
26. Question 26 of 200

    Which chapter of PECA, 2016 is titled 'Prosecution and Trial of Offences' and covers Sections 43 to 47?

    A Chapter IV B Chapter VI C Chapter V D Chapter III
27. Question 27 of 200

    Under Section 6 of PECA, 2016, unauthorized access to critical infrastructure information system or data is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

    A Three years B Five years C Seven years D Two years
28. Question 28 of 200

    Under Section 26A of PECA (inserted by the 2025 Amendment), the maximum fine prescribed for spreading false or fake information is:

    A Ten million rupees B Fifty thousand rupees C Two million rupees D Five hundred thousand rupees
29. Question 29 of 200

    Under Section 10 of PECA, 2016, cyber terrorism is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

    A Ten years B Seven years C Twenty years D Fourteen years
30. Question 30 of 200

    Under Section 49 of PECA, 2016, Computer Emergency Response Teams are primarily intended to respond to threats or attacks against:

    A Only threats against foreign embassies B Only threats against social media influencers C Critical infrastructure information systems or widespread attacks on information systems in Pakistan D Only threats against private educational institutions
31. Question 31 of 200

    Under PECA, 2016, if information is available for open access by the general public, access to or transmission of it is deemed to be:

    A Subject to prior approval by the PTA B Illegal only if done by a foreign national C Authorized for the purposes of the Act D A criminal offence regardless of context
32. Question 32 of 200

    Under Section 15 of PECA, 2016, making, obtaining, or supplying a device for use in an offence is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

    A One year B Two years C Three months D Six months
33. Question 33 of 200

    Under the 2025 Amendment to PECA, the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA) is granted rule-making/regulation-making power under which newly inserted section?

    A Section 29 B Section 2 C Section 51A D Section 37
34. Question 34 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 addresses 'Interference with information system or data'?

    A Section 19 B Section 23 C Section 8 D Section 5
35. Question 35 of 200

    Under Section 11 of PECA, 2016, the offence of hate speech is punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to:

    A Three years B Fourteen years C Seven years D Two years
36. Question 36 of 200

    Under Section 25(4) of PECA, 2016, a first-time violation involving unsolicited marketing information is punishable with a fine not exceeding:

    A Fifty thousand rupees B Five hundred thousand rupees C Five million rupees D One million rupees
37. Question 37 of 200

    Which of the following is NOT one of the three main new institutions created by the 2025 Amendment to PECA (as distinct from the pre-existing FIA)?

    A The Social Media Protection Tribunal (SMPT) B The Social Media Complaints Council C The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) D The Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA)
38. Question 38 of 200

    Under the 2025 Amendment to PECA, cases before the Social Media Protection Tribunal (SMPT) are required to be resolved within:

    A One year B Ninety days C Fourteen days D Thirty days
39. Question 39 of 200

    The Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was passed by both houses of Pakistan's Parliament in which month?

    A December 2024 B August 2016 C January 2025 D March 2023
40. Question 40 of 200

    Trial procedure for PECA offences, to the extent not inconsistent with the Act, follows the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, and which other evidentiary law?

    A The Qanoon-e-Shahadat, 1984 B The Contract Act, 1872 C The Indian Evidence Act, 1872 D The Limitation Act, 1908
41. Question 41 of 200

    Under PECA, 2016 as originally enacted, which agency was designated as the 'investigation agency' for offences under the Act?

    A The Provincial Police only B The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority C The Pakistan Army D The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA)
42. Question 42 of 200

    Under Section 32 of PECA, 2016, a service provider must retain specified traffic data for a minimum period of:

    A One year B Ninety days C Six months D Two years
43. Question 43 of 200

    Under Section 26A of PECA (inserted by the 2025 Amendment), spreading false or fake information is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

    A Seven years B One year C Five years D Three years
44. Question 44 of 200

    Under Section 3 of PECA, 2016, unauthorized access to an information system or data is punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to:

    A Six months B Two years C Three months D Three years
45. Question 45 of 200

    The Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was moved in Parliament by which federal minister?

    A The Minister for Industries and Production B The Minister for Interior C The Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication D The Minister for Law and Justice
46. Question 46 of 200

    Under PECA, 2016, a "service provider" broadly includes a person who:

    A Only sells computer hardware B Sends, receives, stores or processes electronic communications, or operates a public switched network C Provides electricity to telecom towers D Manufactures SIM cards
47. Question 47 of 200

    Under PECA, 2016, to "seize" with respect to an information system or data includes:

    A Taking possession of such system or data, or making and retaining a copy of the data B Publishing the data online for public awareness C Deleting the data permanently D Only physically confiscating a mobile phone
48. Question 48 of 200

    Under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Investigation Rules, 2018, which international organization did the FIA primarily utilize for extending or seeking international cooperation in cybercrime cases?

    A the United Nations Security Council B INTERPOL C Europol D the World Bank
49. Question 49 of 200

    The definition of "child sexual abuse content" was inserted into PECA by the 2023 amendment and refers to representation of:

    A A child appearing in an advertisement B Any image of a child taken without a photography permit C A child's school records shared online D A child engaged in real or simulated sexually explicit conduct, or representation of a child's sexual parts for primarily sexual purposes
50. Question 50 of 200

    The 2025 Amendment to PECA is noted for extending the law's coverage to online speech specifically concerning:

    A Religious institutions exclusively B Corporate entities exclusively C Public officials D Foreign diplomats exclusively
51. Question 51 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Unauthorized use of identity information'?

    A Section 18 B Section 16 C Section 17 D Section 19
52. Question 52 of 200

    Which newly inserted section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Commercial sexual exploitation of children'?

    A Section 22C B Section 22B C Section 22A D Section 21
53. Question 53 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Offences against dignity of a natural person' (commonly linked to online defamation)?

    A Section 20 B Section 21 C Section 11 D Section 24
54. Question 54 of 200

    Under PECA, 2016, "traffic data" includes data relating to a communication indicating its:

    A Encryption key used for the message B Sender's political affiliation only C Origin, destination, route, time, size, duration or type of service D Physical address of the internet service provider's headquarters
55. Question 55 of 200

    Under Section 30(3) of PECA, 2016 (as amended in 2023), an investigation in a case triable by the court had to be completed within:

    A Ninety working days B Thirty calendar days C Fifteen working days D Forty-five working days
56. Question 56 of 200

    Under Section 29(3) of PECA, 2016, the investigation agency is required to establish its own capacity for:

    A Broadcasting public awareness campaigns B Forensic analysis of data or information systems C Printing identity cards D Issuing SIM cards
57. Question 57 of 200

    Under Section 9 of PECA, 2016, the explanation clarifies that 'glorification' includes:

    A Government statements condemning terrorism B Any mention of a terrorist organization in a news report C Depiction of any form of praise or celebration in a desirable manner D Academic research on terrorism
58. Question 58 of 200

    Under Section 4 of PECA, 2016, unauthorized copying or transmission of data is punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to:

    A One year B Three months C Six months D Two years
59. Question 59 of 200

    Under Section 43 of PECA, 2016, offences under Section 21 (against modesty of a natural person and minor) are classified as:

    A Bailable and compoundable B Non-cognizable and compoundable C Non-bailable, non-compoundable and cognizable D Cognizable only on complaint by the Authority
60. Question 60 of 200

    Under Section 24(2) of PECA, 2016, cyber stalking of an adult victim is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

    A Five years B One year C Two years D Three years
61. Question 61 of 200

    On which date was the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 enacted (assented to) by the President?

    A 1 January 2017 B 22 August 2016 C 19 August 2016 D 11 August 2016
62. Question 62 of 200

    The 2025 Amendment to PECA is best understood, in relation to the 2016 Act and its 2023 amendment, as primarily addressing:

    A Establishing Pakistan's first data protection law B Social media regulation, misinformation, and a new dedicated cybercrime investigation agency C Repealing the entire Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 D Introducing Pakistan's first-ever cybercrime law
63. Question 63 of 200

    Under Section 24A(5) of PECA, 2016, the offence of child cyberbullying is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

    A A fine only, capped at fifty thousand rupees B Five years but not less than one year, with a fine up to five hundred thousand rupees but not less than one hundred thousand rupees C Life imprisonment D Three years only
64. Question 64 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with international cooperation in cybercrime investigations?

    A Section 47 B Section 39 C Section 42 D Section 29
65. Question 65 of 200

    According to legal commentary on the 2025 PECA Amendment, the Act converted certain previously non-cognizable and bailable offences into:

    A Compoundable offences requiring no trial B Civil wrongs rather than criminal offences C Offences triable only by military courts D Cognizable and non-bailable offences
66. Question 66 of 200

    Under Section 43 of PECA, 2016, the offence of cyber terrorism (Section 10) is classified as:

    A Bailable and compoundable B Compoundable with the permission of the Authority C Non-bailable, non-compoundable and cognizable D Non-cognizable only
67. Question 67 of 200

    Under PECA, 2016, "content data" refers to:

    A Only images and videos stored on a device B The metadata generated by a firewall C Any representation of fact, information or concept for processing in an information system, including source code D Only data encrypted using government-approved algorithms
68. Question 68 of 200

    Under PECA, 2016, "dishonest intention" is defined to mean an intention to:

    A Access any public website without logging in B Cause injury, wrongful gain or wrongful loss or harm to any person, or to create hatred or incitement to violence C Share publicly available government information D Use a computer for more than the permitted hours
69. Question 69 of 200

    Under Section 7 of PECA, 2016, the maximum term of imprisonment for unauthorized copying or transmission of critical infrastructure data is:

    A Five years B Seven years C Two years D Three years
70. Question 70 of 200

    Under Section 47(b) of PECA, 2016, an appeal against a judgment passed by a Magistrate lies to:

    A The High Court directly B The investigation agency C The Court of Sessions concerned D The Supreme Court
71. Question 71 of 200

    Under Section 30A of PECA, 2016, the total period of remand in a case shall not, in any case, exceed:

    A Fourteen days B Thirty days C Ninety days D Sixty days
72. Question 72 of 200

    Which international human rights organization criticized the 2025 PECA Amendment, stating that it 'neither protects the public from legitimate online security threats nor respects fundamental human rights'?

    A Reporters Without Borders B Human Rights Watch C The United Nations Human Rights Council D Amnesty International
73. Question 73 of 200

    Under Section 3 of PECA, 2016, the maximum fine for unauthorized access to an information system or data is:

    A Rs. 1,000,000 B Rs. 100,000 C Rs. 500,000 D Rs. 50,000
74. Question 74 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Unauthorized copying or transmission of critical infrastructure data'?

    A Section 6 B Section 7 C Section 8 D Section 4
75. Question 75 of 200

    Under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Investigation Rules, 2018, the mandatory Basic Training Course for newly recruited Cybercrime Wing officers lasted:

    A Ten weeks B Twenty-six weeks C Four weeks D Twelve weeks
76. Question 76 of 200

    For matters not specifically addressed by PECA, 2016, the definitions and provisions of which laws apply, as per Section 2(2)?

    A The Pakistan Penal Code 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure 1898, and the Qanoon-e-Shahadat 1984 B The Companies Act 2017 only C International treaties ratified by Pakistan D The Constitution of Pakistan exclusively
77. Question 77 of 200

    Under PECA, 2016, which of the following newly inserted sections deals with 'Online grooming, solicitation and cyber enticement' of minors?

    A Section 22C B Section 22A C Section 24A D Section 22B
78. Question 78 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 defines and penalizes 'Cyber terrorism'?

    A Section 9 B Section 10 C Section 11 D Section 8
79. Question 79 of 200

    Under Section 43A of PECA, 2016 (inserted in 2023), complaints regarding cybercrimes against children may be lodged by:

    A Only the child's teacher B Only a police officer C Only a licensed lawyer D The complainant, as defined under the relevant clause of Section 2
80. Question 80 of 200

    Under Section 21(2) of PECA, 2016, if the victim of the offence against modesty is a minor, the punishment may extend to:

    A Seven years' imprisonment and a fine which may extend to five million rupees B Three years' imprisonment only C A fine only, without imprisonment D Two years' imprisonment
81. Question 81 of 200

    Under PECA, 2016, the term "Authority" refers to which body?

    A Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) B Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) C State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) D Federal Investigation Agency (FIA)
82. Question 82 of 200

    Under the 2025 Amendment to PECA, the Director General of the newly created National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) is appointed for a term of:

    A Two years, extendable indefinitely B Life tenure C Five years, renewable once D Three years, non-extendable
83. Question 83 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 penalizes the unauthorized disclosure of personal information obtained during service provision or investigation?

    A Section 41 B Section 38 C Section 16 D Section 20
84. Question 84 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Unauthorized access to critical infrastructure information system or data'?

    A Section 3 B Section 6 C Section 9 D Section 7
85. Question 85 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Recruitment, funding and planning of terrorism'?

    A Section 9 B Section 12 C Section 10 D Section 11
86. Question 86 of 200

    Section 30C of PECA, 2016 (inserted in 2023) mandates that trials of offences against minors be conducted:

    A By a jury B In open court only C In-camera D Through written submissions only
87. Question 87 of 200

    Section 45A of PECA, 2016 (inserted in 2023) requires the Government to develop a mechanism for:

    A Certification of forensic laboratories B Registration of new service providers C Licensing of SIM card retailers D Support of victims, in collaboration with other agencies and civil society organizations
88. Question 88 of 200

    Under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Investigation Rules, 2018, the Cybercrime Wing (historically the FIA's operational arm for PECA) was organized into how many main sections?

    A Three (Investigation, Forensics, and Data & Network Security) B Two (Investigation and Forensics only) C One unified section D Five
89. Question 89 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 provides that an offence is not denied legal recognition merely because it was committed through an information system?

    A Section 2 B Section 50 C Section 28 D Section 27
90. Question 90 of 200

    Under Section 13(2) of PECA, 2016, electronic forgery committed in relation to critical infrastructure data is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

    A Five years B Seven years C Ten years D Three years
91. Question 91 of 200

    Under Section 18 of PECA, 2016, tampering with communication equipment (e.g., changing a device's unique identifier) is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

    A Two years B Five years C One year D Three years
92. Question 92 of 200

    Under Section 20 of PECA, 2016, offences against the dignity of a natural person are punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

    A Seven years B Three years C Five years D Two years
93. Question 93 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Cyber stalking'?

    A Section 26 B Section 20 C Section 24 D Section 21
94. Question 94 of 200

    As substituted by the 2023 amendment, Section 22 of PECA, 2016 (child pornography) prescribes imprisonment which may extend to:

    A Five years and a fine of fifty thousand rupees B Twenty years, with a minimum of fourteen years, and a fine not less than one million rupees C Two years only D Three years and a fine of one hundred thousand rupees
95. Question 95 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 grants power to remove or block unlawful online content?

    A Section 20 B Section 37 C Section 38 D Section 48
96. Question 96 of 200

    Under Section 22A of PECA, 2016 (online grooming, solicitation and cyber enticement), the punishment may extend to imprisonment of:

    A Two years only B Ten years (not less than five years), with fine up to ten million rupees (not less than five hundred thousand rupees) C Life imprisonment D Three years with a fine of fifty thousand rupees
97. Question 97 of 200

    Section 30B of PECA, 2016 (inserted in 2023) establishes a system for:

    A SIM card verification B Forensic laboratory accreditation C International data sharing D Victim and witness protection
98. Question 98 of 200

    Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Spoofing'?

    A Section 13 B Section 16 C Section 26 D Section 25
99. Question 99 of 200

    Under Section 40 of PECA, 2016, the forensic laboratory established to examine electronic evidence must be, in relation to the investigation agency:

    A A subordinate wing of the investigation agency B Independent C Privately outsourced only D Operated jointly with a foreign government
100. Question 100 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Electronic forgery'?

     A Section 4 B Section 23 C Section 14 D Section 13
101. Question 101 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 penalizes 'Making, obtaining, or supplying a device for use in an offence'?

     A Section 23 B Section 15 C Section 18 D Section 26
102. Question 102 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 addresses 'Interference with critical infrastructure information system or data'?

     A Section 5 B Section 7 C Section 8 D Section 10
103. Question 103 of 200

     Prior to the 2025 Amendment, complaints under PECA regarding unauthorized disclosure of data (Section 41) would have been directed to the FIA's Cybercrime Wing; after the amendment, such complaints must be directed to:

     A The Ministry of Interior B The Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA) C The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) D The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA)
104. Question 104 of 200

     Under Section 42(5) of PECA, 2016, the Federal Government may refuse a foreign cooperation request if granting it would prejudice:

     A A private company's stock price B The requesting country's tourism revenue C Sovereignty, security, public order, or other essential public interest of Pakistan D The requesting country's internal politics
105. Question 105 of 200

     Under Section 47 of PECA, 2016, an appeal against a final judgment or order of a Court must be filed within how many days from receipt of a free certified copy?

     A Sixty days B Ninety days C Fifteen days D Thirty days
106. Question 106 of 200

     Under Section 10 of PECA, 2016, cyber terrorism is committed by threatening or committing offences under which sections, with terrorist intent?

     A Sections 6, 7, 8 or 9 B Sections 20, 21 or 22 C Sections 13, 14 or 15 D Sections 3, 4, 5 or 6
107. Question 107 of 200

     Under Section 12 of PECA, 2016, recruitment, funding and planning of terrorism is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

     A Seven years B Fourteen years C Ten years D Five years
108. Question 108 of 200

     On which date did the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 commence (come into force)?

     A 1 September 2016 B 23 January 2017 C 11 August 2016 D 19 August 2016
109. Question 109 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Tampering, etc. of communication equipment'?

     A Section 17 B Section 19 C Section 23 D Section 18
110. Question 110 of 200

     Under the 2025 Amendment to PECA, Section 30 (which previously authorized both the Police and the FIA to investigate cybercrime) was amended to vest exclusive investigative power in:

     A The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority B The Provincial Home Departments C The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) D The Ministry of Interior directly
111. Question 111 of 200

     Under PECA, 2016, "unauthorized interception" refers to the interception, by technical means, of:

     A Data already published on a public government website B Radio frequencies used by amateur hobbyists with a license C A transmission not intended to be open to the public, without authorization D Any publicly broadcast television signal
112. Question 112 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 addresses 'Offences against modesty of a natural person and minor'?

     A Section 20 B Section 21 C Section 24 D Section 22
113. Question 113 of 200

     What is the official long title of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016?

     A An Act to make provisions for prevention of electronic crimes B An Act to regulate electronic commerce in Pakistan C An Act to establish the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority D An Act to protect personal data of citizens of Pakistan
114. Question 114 of 200

     Under Section 53 of PECA, 2016, the investigation agency is required to submit a report on its activities to Parliament:

     A Only when requested B Quarterly C Annually D Half-yearly
115. Question 115 of 200

     Under Section 44(1) of PECA, 2016, presiding officers of Courts to try offences under the Act are designated by the Federal Government in consultation with:

     A The Director General of the investigation agency B The Senate Standing Committee C The Prime Minister D The Chief Justice of the respective High Court
116. Question 116 of 200

     Under Section 54 of PECA, 2016, which sections of the Electronic Transactions Ordinance, 2002 were specifically omitted?

     A Sections 5 and 6 B Sections 36 and 37 C Sections 40 and 41 D Sections 1 and 2
117. Question 117 of 200

     A journalist summoned by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) over an online post would most likely be under inquiry in relation to which newly inserted PECA provision?

     A Section 15 (making a device for use in an offence) B Section 26A (dissemination of false or fake information) C Section 3 (unauthorized access) D Section 6 (unauthorized access to critical infrastructure)
118. Question 118 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Unauthorized issuance of SIM cards etc.'?

     A Section 18 B Section 17 C Section 16 D Section 25
119. Question 119 of 200

     Under the proviso to Section 20(1) of PECA, 2016, the offence against dignity of a natural person does NOT apply to:

     A Anything aired by a broadcast media or distribution service licensed under the PEMRA Ordinance, 2002 B Content published before the Act came into force C Statements made in a court of law D Statements made by government officials
120. Question 120 of 200

     The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 is officially cited as:

     A Act No. XL of 2002 B Act No. XXI of 2016 C Act No. XXXVII of 2016 D Act No. XL of 2016
121. Question 121 of 200

     Under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Investigation Rules, 2018, for a non-cognizable offence under PECA, the circle in-charge had to seek permission of the competent Court under which section of the Code of Criminal Procedure?

     A Section 161 B Section 154 C Section 155 D Section 173
122. Question 122 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 provides for the constitution of Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERTs)?

     A Section 48 B Section 40 C Section 29 D Section 49
123. Question 123 of 200

     The 2025 Amendment to PECA introduced the new legal term 'aspersion', defined as:

     A A category of critical infrastructure B A digital signature verification method C A type of malicious code D Spreading false and harmful information which damages the reputation of a person
124. Question 124 of 200

     Which chapter of PECA, 2016 covers 'Establishment of Investigation Agency and Procedural Powers for Investigation'?

     A Chapter II (Sections 3-28) B Chapter III (Sections 29-41) C Chapter IV (Section 42) D Chapter V (Sections 43-47)
125. Question 125 of 200

     The Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2025 inserted a new offence criminalizing the intentional dissemination of false or fake information likely to cause fear, panic, or unrest. This provision is:

     A Section 26A B Section 37A C Section 20A D Section 11A
126. Question 126 of 200

     Under Section 9 of PECA, 2016, glorification of a terrorism-related offence is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

     A Fourteen years B Five years C Seven years D Three years
127. Question 127 of 200

     Under Section 43(1) of PECA, 2016, offences under the Act, except those specifically listed, are generally classified as:

     A Compoundable only with the Authority's approval B Cognizable and non-bailable in all cases C Non-cognizable, bailable, and compoundable D Triable exclusively by the Supreme Court
128. Question 128 of 200

     Under Section 18 of PECA, 2016, the specific element being unlawfully altered is referred to as the:

     A Unique device identifier B IP address of the device C SIM registration number D MAC address only
129. Question 129 of 200

     Under Section 37(4) of PECA, 2016, a person aggrieved by an order blocking online content may apply for review within:

     A Ten days from the date of the order B Thirty days from the date of the order C Sixty days from the date of the order D Fifteen days from the date of the order
130. Question 130 of 200

     Under PECA, 2016, an "information system" is defined as:

     A A physical filing cabinet used to store paper records B Only a system connected to the internet C An electronic system for creating, generating, sending, receiving, storing, reproducing, displaying, recording or processing information D Only a government-owned computer network
131. Question 131 of 200

     Under PECA, 2016, "unauthorized access" means access to an information system or data that is:

     A Provided free of cost to the public B Not available for access by the general public, without authorization or in violation of the terms of authorization C Restricted only to government employees D Accessible using default factory passwords
132. Question 132 of 200

     Under the framework created by the 2025 Amendment, which of the following best distinguishes the roles of the NCCIA and the SMPRA?

     A The NCCIA regulates content while the SMPRA investigates crimes B Both bodies perform identical functions and can be used interchangeably C The NCCIA investigates cybercrime offences, while the SMPRA regulates social media content and platforms D The SMPRA only operates during elections, while the NCCIA operates year-round
133. Question 133 of 200

     Under Section 39(1) of PECA, 2016, real-time collection or recording of information cannot ordinarily be ordered for a period exceeding:

     A Thirty days B Ninety days C Seven days D Fourteen days
134. Question 134 of 200

     Under PECA, 2016, "identity information" means information which:

     A Is limited to bank account numbers B Only refers to biometric fingerprints C Only refers to a person's CNIC number D May authenticate or identify an individual or an information system and enable access to data or an information system
135. Question 135 of 200

     Chapter VI of PECA, 2016 (Sections 48 and 49) is titled:

     A Preventive Measures B Miscellaneous C Prosecution and Trial of Offences D International Cooperation
136. Question 136 of 200

     Under Section 16 of PECA, 2016, unauthorized use of identity information is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

     A Five years B Three years C Six months D Two years
137. Question 137 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 amended the Electronic Transactions Ordinance, 2002 by omitting certain sections?

     A Section 37 B Section 54 C Section 28 D Section 50
138. Question 138 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Child pornography'?

     A Section 22A B Section 22 C Section 24 D Section 21
139. Question 139 of 200

     Under the 2025 Amendment to PECA, the Social Media Protection Tribunal (SMPT) is composed of three members with backgrounds in law, information technology, and:

     A Medicine B Journalism C Engineering (civil) D Accountancy
140. Question 140 of 200

     Under PECA, 2016, the term "device" is defined to include which of the following?

     A Only devices registered with the PTA B A password, access code, or automated/self-executing program, in addition to physical articles C Only mobile phones and laptops D Only devices manufactured in Pakistan
141. Question 141 of 200

     Despite the 2025 Amendment's expansion of PECA, legal commentators note that Pakistan still lacks a comprehensive law specifically governing:

     A Telecommunication licensing B Cybercrime offences generally C Electronic signatures D Personal data protection and privacy
142. Question 142 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 provides that nothing in the Act shall affect the duly authorized and lawful powers of government-controlled institutions exercised in good faith?

     A Section 50 B Section 28 C Section 55 D Section 2
143. Question 143 of 200

     The 2025 Amendment to PECA created a new regulatory body, established through new Chapters inserted into the Act, known as the:

     A National Data Protection Authority (NDPA) B Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA) C Cyber Security Council of Pakistan (CSCP) D Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA)
144. Question 144 of 200

     Under Section 31 of PECA, 2016, an authorized officer may require preservation of specific data for a period not exceeding:

     A Thirty days B One year C Ninety days D Sixty days
145. Question 145 of 200

     Under Section 8 of PECA, 2016, interference with critical infrastructure information system or data is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

     A Seven years B Three years C Five years D Fourteen years
146. Question 146 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with a Court's warrant for disclosure of content data?

     A Section 39 B Section 35 C Section 33 D Section 34
147. Question 147 of 200

     Under PECA, 2016, "critical infrastructure" refers to assets, facilities, systems, networks or processes whose loss or compromise could result in:

     A A temporary reduction in internet browsing speed B Loss of a private company's marketing data only C Minor inconvenience to a single household D Major detrimental impact on essential services or significant impact on national security or defence
148. Question 148 of 200

     The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), historically the investigation agency for PECA offences, was itself established under which law?

     A The Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997 B The Federal Investigation Agency Act, 1974 C The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 D The Police Order, 2002
149. Question 149 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 limits the civil and criminal liability of service providers for content transmitted through their platforms?

     A Section 38 B Section 41 C Section 20 D Section 37
150. Question 150 of 200

     The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 was substantially amended in 2023, particularly to strengthen protections against child exploitation, through which amending Act?

     A The Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2023 (Act No. XXXVII of 2023) B The Digital Pakistan Policy, 2023 C The Cyber Security Strategy, 2023 D The Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
151. Question 151 of 200

     Under Section 22B of PECA, 2016 (commercial sexual exploitation of children), the punishment is imprisonment which:

     A Shall not exceed five years B Shall not be less than fourteen years and may extend up to twenty years, with a fine not less than one million rupees C Is limited to a fine only D Shall not be less than one year
152. Question 152 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Unauthorized interception'?

     A Section 19 B Section 18 C Section 26 D Section 24
153. Question 153 of 200

     Under PECA, 2016, "data damage" is defined to include:

     A Only physical destruction of a hard disk B Alteration, deletion, deterioration, erasure, relocation or suppression of data, or making data unavailable C Backing up data to a secure server D Formatting a device with the owner's consent
154. Question 154 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with the real-time collection and recording of information during a criminal investigation?

     A Section 42 B Section 39 C Section 34 D Section 31
155. Question 155 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Malicious code' (e.g., viruses and other harmful programs)?

     A Section 23 B Section 5 C Section 15 D Section 26
156. Question 156 of 200

     Under Section 13(1) of PECA, 2016, the basic offence of electronic forgery is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

     A Five years B Two years C Three years D Seven years
157. Question 157 of 200

     Under Section 47(a) of PECA, 2016, an appeal against a judgment passed by a Court of Sessions lies to:

     A The Sessions Court itself B The High Court concerned C The Supreme Court directly D The Federal Shariat Court
158. Question 158 of 200

     Under Section 25(3) of PECA, 2016, spamming by transmitting harmful, fraudulent, misleading or illegal information is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

     A One year, with no fine option B Two years C Five years D Three months, or fine ranging from fifty thousand to five million rupees
159. Question 159 of 200

     Under Section 14 of PECA, 2016, electronic fraud is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

     A Five years B Three years C Two years D One year
160. Question 160 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Hate speech'?

     A Section 12 B Section 11 C Section 10 D Section 9
161. Question 161 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016, inserted by the 2023 amendment, specifically addresses 'Cyberbullying'?

     A Section 22A B Section 24A C Section 25 D Section 24
162. Question 162 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Electronic fraud'?

     A Section 13 B Section 14 C Section 16 D Section 26
163. Question 163 of 200

     Under the 2025 Amendment to PECA, the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA) is empowered to order the removal or blocking of unlawful or offensive online content within:

     A Seven days B Forty-eight hours C Thirty days D Ninety days
164. Question 164 of 200

     Under PECA, 2016, which agency is meant by the term "investigation agency"?

     A The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority B The Provincial Police Department exclusively C The law enforcement agency established or designated under the Act (i.e., the FIA) D The Ministry of Information Technology
165. Question 165 of 200

     Under the 2025 Amendment to PECA, the Director General of the NCCIA is vested with powers equivalent to those of:

     A An Inspector General of Police, under the Police Order, 2002 B The Chairman of PTA C A Federal Secretary D A High Court judge
166. Question 166 of 200

     Under Section 42(5) of PECA, 2016, cooperation may be refused if there are grounds to believe the request is aimed at prosecuting a person based on their:

     A Race, sex, religion, nationality, ethnic origin or political opinions B Choice of internet service provider C Employer's industry D Preferred programming language
167. Question 167 of 200

     Under PECA, 2016, a person cannot be held liable for an offence under the Act if he is:

     A A first-time offender regardless of age B A government employee C Below eighteen years of age in all circumstances D Below ten years of age
168. Question 168 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 empowers a Court to issue a warrant for search or seizure of an information system, data, or device?

     A Section 33 B Section 36 C Section 35 D Section 34
169. Question 169 of 200

     Before the enactment of PECA, 2016, cyber-related matters in Pakistan were primarily addressed under which law?

     A The Pakistan Penal Code, 1860 alone B The Telegraph Act, 1885 C The Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997 D The Electronic Transactions Ordinance, 2002
170. Question 170 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 requires the establishment of a forensic laboratory independent of the investigation agency?

     A Section 29 B Section 49 C Section 40 D Section 35
171. Question 171 of 200

     Under Section 23 of PECA, 2016, the offence of malicious code is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

     A One year B Three years C Five years D Two years
172. Question 172 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Unauthorized access to information system or data'?

     A Section 6 B Section 5 C Section 4 D Section 3
173. Question 173 of 200

     The Electronic Transactions Ordinance, 2002, which predates PECA, primarily dealt with:

     A Criminal penalties for cyberbullying B Establishment of the FIA's Cybercrime Wing C Legal recognition of electronic documents, digital signatures, and e-commerce transactions D Data protection and privacy rights
174. Question 174 of 200

     Under the proviso to Section 21(2) of PECA, 2016, a person previously convicted of the same offence against a minor is punishable with imprisonment of:

     A Ten years and with fine B Life imprisonment C Fourteen years and with fine D Five years only
175. Question 175 of 200

     Under Section 26 of PECA, 2016, the offence of spoofing is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

     A Two years B Three years C Five years D One year
176. Question 176 of 200

     Under Section 50 of PECA, 2016, the Act's provisions have effect without derogation to the Pakistan Penal Code 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure 1898, the Qanoon-e-Shahadat 1984, and which other laws?

     A The Protection of Pakistan Act, 2014 and the Investigation for Fair Trial Act, 2013 B The Companies Act, 2017 and the Banking Companies Ordinance, 1962 C The Income Tax Ordinance, 2001 and the Sales Tax Act, 1990 D The Constitution of Pakistan alone
177. Question 177 of 200

     As originally enacted in 2016 (before the 2025 Amendment inserted additional chapters for social media regulation), the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act comprised how many Chapters?

     A Ten B Seven C Four D Five
178. Question 178 of 200

     Under Section 19 of PECA, 2016, unauthorized interception is punishable with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to:

     A Five years B Three years C One year D Two years
179. Question 179 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with the procedure for dealing with seized data or an information system?

     A Section 35 B Section 33 C Section 36 D Section 40
180. Question 180 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Spamming'?

     A Section 25 B Section 24 C Section 26 D Section 11
181. Question 181 of 200

     Under the proviso to Section 24(2) of PECA, 2016, if the victim of cyber stalking is a minor, the punishment may extend to:

     A Five years' imprisonment or fine which may extend to ten million rupees, or both B A fine of fifty thousand rupees only C Two years' imprisonment only D Three years' imprisonment only
182. Question 182 of 200

     Under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Investigation Rules, 2018, a forensic expert was required to report the findings of a digital forensic examination within:

     A Thirty days B Three days C Sixty days D Fifteen days from the date of submission of the request
183. Question 183 of 200

     Under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Investigation Rules, 2018, at least what percentage of investigation and helpdesk officers at Cybercrime Reporting Centers were required to be women?

     A Twenty-five percent B Fifty percent C Ten percent D Five percent
184. Question 184 of 200

     Under the 2025 Amendment to PECA, the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA) also performs the function of 'enlistment', which refers to:

     A Registering individual social media users B Registering social media platforms operating in Pakistan C Registering foreign embassies' websites D Registering internet cafes only
185. Question 185 of 200

     What is the territorial extent of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016?

     A Only the provinces, excluding federal territories B The whole of Pakistan C Only areas under Pakistan Telecommunication Authority licenses D Only Islamabad Capital Territory
186. Question 186 of 200

     Besides the Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority (SMPRA) and the Social Media Protection Tribunal (SMPT), the 2025 Amendment to PECA also established a third social-media-related body known as the:

     A Social Media Complaints Council B Digital Ombudsman's Office C National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency D Federal Forensic Board
187. Question 187 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 deals with 'Glorification of an offence' relating to terrorism?

     A Section 11 B Section 10 C Section 9 D Section 12
188. Question 188 of 200

     Under Section 44(3) of PECA, 2016, prosecution and trial of an offence committed by a minor is conducted under:

     A The Juvenile Justice System Ordinance, 2000 B The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, exclusively C The Qanoon-e-Shahadat, 1984, exclusively D The Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997
189. Question 189 of 200

     Which section of PECA, 2016 empowers the Federal Government to issue directives aimed at preventing electronic crimes?

     A Section 37 B Section 48 C Section 49 D Section 29
190. Question 190 of 200

     The Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Act, 2025 was signed into law by which President of Pakistan?

     A Mamnoon Hussain B Pervez Musharraf C Arif Alvi D Asif Ali Zardari
191. Question 191 of 200

     Under Section 30(4) of PECA, 2016 (as amended in 2023), once a Court took cognizance of a case, it was required to decide the case within:

     A One month B Three months C One year D Six months
192. Question 192 of 200

     Under PECA, 2016, a "minor" or "child" is defined as a person who:

     A Has not completed the age of sixteen years B Has not completed the age of eighteen years C Has not completed the age of fourteen years D Has not completed the age of twenty-one years
193. Question 193 of 200

     Under PECA, 2016, "unsolicited information" refers to information sent for commercial or marketing purposes:

     A With the recipient's prior written consent B Through registered post only C Only during business hours D Against the explicit rejection of the recipient
194. Question 194 of 200

     Under Section 46 of PECA, 2016, the Court may, in a pending case, appoint or seek:

     A A media representative to observe proceedings B A jury of twelve citizens C A foreign judge to co-preside D An amicus curiae or independent expert opinion
195. Question 195 of 200

     Under Section 17 of PECA, 2016, unauthorized issuance of SIM cards is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

     A Six months B One year C Three years D Five years
196. Question 196 of 200

     Under Section 5 of PECA, 2016, interference with an information system or data is punishable with imprisonment which may extend to:

     A Two years B Six months C Five years D One year
197. Question 197 of 200

     Under PECA as it stands after the 2025 Amendment, an 'information system' for the purposes of Section 26A would include which of the following?

     A Only landline telephone networks B Only devices manufactured after 2025 C Only government-owned mainframe computers D Social media platforms, messaging apps, and websites, in addition to computers and mobile phones
198. Question 198 of 200

     Under Section 42(3) of PECA, 2016, when the Federal Government forwards information to a foreign government or agency, that recipient is required to:

     A Publish the information for transparency B Share it further with any interested third party C Translate it into Urdu before use D Keep the information confidential and use it strictly for the purpose it was provided
199. Question 199 of 200

     Under Section 26A of PECA, an offence is committed only where the person spreading the information:

     A Knew or had reason to believe the information was false or fake B Merely shared information later found inaccurate by any third party C Used a government-issued device D Was a registered journalist
200. Question 200 of 200

     Which newly inserted section of PECA, 2016 addresses 'Use of information system for kidnapping, abduction or trafficking of minor'?

     A Section 22B B Section 22C C Section 22A D Section 24A

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