ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) reaffirmed that it is not blocking virtual private networks (VPNs) in Pakistan.
In a statement issued today, the PTA addressed recent reports in the media, clarifying, “The news circulating about PTA blocking VPNs is inaccurate. VPNs are not being blocked in Pakistan.”
A VPN establishes a secure connection between a user’s device and a remote server operated by a VPN provider. This creates an encrypted tunnel, safeguarding personal data, masking the user’s IP address, and allowing them to bypass website blocks and firewalls. It ensures online privacy, security, and unrestricted access.
In Pakistan, the use of VPNs has grown, especially after the restriction of the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) and frequent internet outages. Many users rely on VPNs for faster connectivity to websites, applications, and quicker downloads.
For several weeks, internet users in the country have been facing connectivity disruptions. Authorities have attributed this to issues with a “faulty” submarine cable, with a resolution expected by early October.
The internet slowdown has drawn sharp criticism from both the public and the IT sector, with some attributing the disruptions to alleged tests of an internet firewall designed to restrict access to certain content on social media platforms.
It’s worth noting that the government has previously linked an increase in VPN usage to slower internet speeds.
Currently, the PTA is urging IT companies, software houses, freelancers, and banks to register their internet protocols (IPs) to use VPNs. The authority noted that this registration ensures that their internet access remains unaffected during any future disruptions.
The PTA also emphasized that VPN registration is a streamlined “one-window operation” that is available on its website and the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) website. The process takes two to three days and is free of charge.
Previously, the PTA introduced VPN registration under a “one-window” operation to facilitate businesses, software houses, call centers, freelancers, and foreign missions in maintaining secure and uninterrupted services.
Since 2020, over 20,000 IPs have been registered for VPN use, according to the PTA.
The authority also clarified that it is using an “automated process” to whitelist VPNs, ensuring the seamless and secure operation of IT services and online businesses amid earlier concerns over a potential ban.
