Background of CyberPoe Fact Check Unit
The CyberPoe Fact Check Unit (FCU) has been established to combat the growing threat of misinformation, fake news, and digital disinformation in Pakistan’s rapidly evolving media landscape. As online platforms continue to shape public perception, the spread of false narratives whether intentional or accidental poses a serious risk to social harmony, national security, and informed democratic participation. CyberPoe FCU aims to address this challenge by serving as an independent, non-partisan, and evidence-based digital verification platform, dedicated to identifying and exposing misleading content circulating across social media, messaging apps, news websites, and other online forums.
Operating within the legal framework of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, CyberPoe FCU aligns its activities with relevant provisions of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, particularly those related to online misinformation, cyber defamation, and false information (Sections 20, 21, and 24). The initiative also considers relevant clauses of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) that pertain to public mischief and reputational harm, as well as the PEMRA Ordinance 2002, which outlines content standards for electronic media. At its core, CyberPoe FCU respects and upholds the fundamental right to freedom of expression as guaranteed under Article 19 of the Constitution of Pakistan, while acknowledging the need for responsible use of that freedom to prevent harm to public order, decency, and national interest.
Editorial Review
Each fact-check report goes through editorial review to ensure neutrality, clarity, and legal compliance. No claim is published without independent verification by at least two reviewers.
Verdict Classification
Based on the findings, the claim is labeled as: True False Misleading Partially True Unverified
Public Publication
The report is published on our website and shared through our social media platforms. We also respond directly to users who submitted the claim.
Follow-Up (If Needed)
If new evidence emerges, we update or correct the fact-check to maintain transparency and public trust.
Fact-Check Mechanism
At CyberPoe Fact Check Unit (FCU), we follow a transparent, step-by-step verification process to ensure every claim is examined with objectivity and evidence. Our mechanism is designed to be rigorous, accountable, and aligned with both local laws and international best practices.
Claim Identification
We monitor social media, messaging apps, news outlets, and user submissions to detect potentially false or misleading content. Claims can also be submitted by the public via our website or tipline.
Preliminary Assessment
Each claim is screened for relevance, potential impact, and verifiability. We prioritize issues related to public safety, politics, health, and national interest.
Evidence Gathering
Our fact-checkers use a range of tools and methods including: Open-source intelligence (OSINT) Reverse image and video searches (e.g., Google, TinEye, InVID) Public records, government data, and official press releases Expert interviews and credible news archives
Verification & Analysis
The claim is examined in detail against verified facts and context. If necessary, the claim is also reviewed by subject-matter experts to ensure accuracy.
CyberPoe FCU’s Mandate
CyberPoe FCU’s mandate includes the investigation and verification of digital claims and viral content that may mislead the public or cause panic. Every published fact-check is supported by verifiable evidence drawn from official sources, public records, or credible third-party tools. Based on this evidence, each claim is assigned a clear status: True, False, Misleading, Partially True, or Unverified. The platform also offers a public submission feature, allowing individuals to report suspicious content for review, fostering civic participation in the fight against misinformation. In addition to content verification, CyberPoe actively works to enhance public digital literacy by promoting media awareness, critical thinking, and responsible online behavior.
Organization
CyberPoe Fact Check Unit (FCU) is an independent, non-partisan initiative structured to verify digital misinformation using transparent, evidence-based methods. Our core team includes fact-checkers, journalists, digital analysts, and legal experts who work collaboratively to investigate viral claims and publish verified reports.
The unit is divided into key functional areas:
Fact Verification Team: Investigates and verifies claims using tools like OSINT, reverse image search, and official sources.
Editorial Review Board: Ensures accuracy, neutrality, and compliance with ethical standards.
Legal & Policy Unit: Ensures alignment with Pakistani laws, including PECA 2016 and PEMRA regulations.
Public Engagement Cell: Manages user-submitted claims, community outreach, and digital literacy campaigns.
FCU maintains editorial independence and adheres to global best practices in fact-checking, aiming to foster a more informed and digitally resilient society.
