ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has officially registered popular social media platforms BIGO LIVE and Likee in Pakistan, bringing renewed attention to online content moderation, user safety and concerns previously raised over inappropriate material on the platforms.
According to the PTA, both platforms have been registered under Bigo Service Pakistan (Pvt.) Ltd. in accordance with the Removal and Blocking of Unlawful Online Content (Procedure, Oversight and Safeguards) Rules, 2021.
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has formally registered BIGO LIVE and Likee platforms in Pakistan under Bigo Service Pakistan (Pvt.) Ltd., in accordance with the Removal and Blocking of Unlawful Online Content (Procedure, Oversight and Safeguards) Rules, 2021.
PTA look forward to strengthening its collaboration with BIGO to enhance content moderation mechanisms, promote responsible platform use, and ensure continued compliance with Pakistan’s applicable laws.#PTA #BIGO #BigoLIVE #Likee #DigitalPakistan #ResponsibleDigitalUse #OnlineSafety #ContentModeration #DigitalResponsibility #SocialMediaSafety #DigitalTrust #CyberSafety #Pakistan #RegulatoryCompliance #SafeDigitalSpace
— PTA (@PTAofficialpk) November 4, 2026
The authority said the registration would help strengthen institutional cooperation with BIGO, improve online content monitoring mechanisms and promote responsible use of the platform.
The PTA added that closer collaboration would also focus on ensuring compliance with Pakistan’s applicable laws and regulatory requirements while contributing to a safer digital environment for users.
Why Has BIGO LIVE Faced Controversy in the Past?
BIGO LIVE is a popular international platform that allows users to broadcast live videos, communicate through online chat rooms and interact with other users in real time. However, the platform has faced criticism and complaints in the past over allegedly inappropriate, indecent and objectionable content.
Critics have raised concerns that some users engage in provocative behaviour, wear inappropriate clothing or use offensive language during live broadcasts to attract viewers. Concerns have also been expressed over the alleged use of inappropriate content to encourage viewers to send virtual gifts and provide financial support.
The platform has previously faced regulatory action in Pakistan as well. In July 2020, the PTA temporarily blocked BIGO LIVE following complaints concerning immoral, obscene and vulgar content.
The restriction was lifted later that month after the company assured the authority that it would improve content moderation and take steps to prevent inappropriate activities on the platform.
What Risks Could the Platform Pose to Underage Users?
Digital safety experts have highlighted potential risks for younger users arising from open chat rooms, direct interactions with strangers and the platform’s virtual currency and gifting features.
These risks may include cyber harassment, exposure to inappropriate material, unwanted contact from strangers and potential online exploitation.
Experts advise parents to monitor their children’s online activities and educate them about digital privacy, protecting personal information and the risks associated with interacting with unknown individuals online.
What Do BIGO LIVE’s Community Guidelines Say?
According to BIGO LIVE’s community guidelines, the platform prohibits nudity, pornographic material, sexually suggestive content and the promotion of sexual services in exchange for payment.
The company says it uses artificial intelligence-based monitoring systems alongside human moderators to review platform activities around the clock.
Additional measures reportedly include action against accounts that violate community rules, reviewing user complaints and restricting access for repeat offenders.
The company maintains that these measures are designed to enforce its community guidelines and prevent inappropriate content from appearing on the platform.
What Challenges Lie Ahead for the PTA Following the Registration?
The registration of BIGO LIVE and Likee in Pakistan is being viewed as an important development in strengthening regulatory engagement between the government and major digital platforms.
However, the effectiveness of this arrangement will depend on how consistently both platforms comply with Pakistani laws, respond to user complaints and strengthen mechanisms to prevent unlawful or inappropriate online content.
Given BIGO LIVE’s history of regulatory scrutiny in Pakistan, particular attention is likely to be focused on whether the company translates its previous assurances into effective and sustained action.
Following the registration, closer cooperation between the PTA and the platforms is expected to support efforts to create a safer, more responsible and legally compliant digital environment for users across Pakistan.
