The Taliban’s Ministry for the Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice has announced that the use of fake social media accounts is now considered a criminal offence under the group’s regulations, as part of a broader crackdown on online activity.
In a statement issued this week, ministry spokesperson Saif-ul-Islam Khyber warned that individuals who violate the directive will face serious legal consequences. “No one should misuse social media,” he said, adding that online platforms must be used solely for “sharing accurate information, business, education, and public awareness.”
The announcement marks the latest in a series of restrictions the Taliban have imposed on digital platforms. The ministry, in coordination with the Taliban’s intelligence agency, has previously detained and reportedly tortured several social media users accused of spreading anti-Taliban content.
Since regaining power in August 2021, the Taliban have sharply curtailed freedom of expression in Afghanistan. Special monitoring teams have been established to surveil online behaviour, track dissenting voices, and enforce digital compliance with the regime’s strict ideological rules.
