Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Maj Gen (retd) Hafeez Ur Rehman stated on Monday that, while the regulator has the capability to block virtual private networks (VPNs), it has decided not to exercise this power.
Speaking at the launch of the PTA’s 2024 annual report, the PTA chief explained, “We had earlier stated that we can block VPNs, but we won’t do it.” The authority had previously considered blocking VPNs, but later opted against it after the government extended the deadline for registering proxies beyond November 30. A new date for VPN suspension has yet to be announced.
Sources close to the matter revealed that the decision was influenced by a lack of legal grounds for such an action. The PTA chairman confirmed that no VPNs had been blocked as of today, adding that in the current era, “nothing could be hidden from the people.”
Addressing concerns about internet shutdowns in relation to national security, Rehman said, “We don’t have an answer when asked about internet shutdowns for national security reasons.” He advised that such questions should be directed to policymakers.
Last month, the Ministry of Interior had announced plans to begin shutting down all unregistered VPNs by mid-November but later granted a two-week “grace period” for VPNs to comply with mandatory registration requirements. As the deadline passed, the PTA did not issue an official statement but confirmed to media outlets that it would not block VPNs, as the government had decided to extend the registration deadline.
The use of VPNs has surged in Pakistan, particularly after the government banned the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) earlier this year, citing national security concerns. This spike in VPN usage has led stakeholders, including the IT industry and freelancers, to advocate for an extension of the registration deadline.
‘Streamlined’ VPN Registration Process
The PTA had previously stated that it had streamlined the VPN registration process for organizations and freelancers. Entities such as software houses, call centers, banks, embassies, and freelancers can register their VPNs online via the PTA’s official website.
Additionally, members of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) are eligible to use this facility. The registration process requires filling out an online form and providing basic information, including a computerized national identity card (CNIC), company registration details, and taxpayer status.
