Pakistan, Dec. 16 -- State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry on Monday claimed that Pakistan had uncovered extensive evidence of coordinated and paid online social media campaigns operated largely through fake accounts from abroad. He said these campaigns were aimed at manipulating public opinion and targeting state institutions.

Speaking at a press conference, the minister said the government had recently shared background briefings with foreign media. He explained how terrorists and organised networks were exploiting online social media platforms to spread artificial narratives in Pakistan.

Mr Chaudhry said investigations revealed that fake trends were created and sold through WhatsApp groups and other platforms. Individuals were a...