Technology
PTA to whitelist VPNs to ensure smooth, secure IT services
PTA Chairman Retired Major General Hafeezur Rehman explains that the new policy will allow only whitelisted VPNs to operate in Pakistan while others would be blocked
![PTA to whitelist VPNs to ensure smooth, secure IT services](/media/113790/conversions/VPNs-1280x720.webp)
Islamabad: Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Sunday provided further details about its initiative to regulate Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) in the country.
The PTA clarified that it is using an “automated process” to whitelist VPNs to ensure the "smooth and secure functioning of IT services and online businesses,”.
During a meeting of the Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, PTA Chairman, retired Major General Hafeezur Rehman, explained that the new policy would allow only whitelisted VPNs to operate in Pakistan, while others would be blocked. He noted that blocking VPNs could potentially disrupt several IT businesses that rely on these networks.
In response to recent media reports suggesting that the PTA was blocking VPNs, the authority issued a statement on Instagram on Saturday.
The PTA emphasized that no VPNs have been blocked and that any blocking actions would only be taken under government directives and within the legal framework. The statement also reiterated that VPNs are being whitelisted through an automated system available on the PTA and Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) websites.
View this post on Instagram
VPNs create a secure, encrypted connection over less secure networks like the internet, protecting user privacy, securing data, and allowing access to restricted content.
In 2024, the use of VPNs in Pakistan surged, with many users employing them to access X (formerly Twitter), which has been inaccessible in the country since February 19.
-
Pakistan 19 hours ago
JI chief rules out any comprise on demands before govt
-
Business 1 day ago
Gold prices surge for second day in Pakistan
-
Pakistan 22 hours ago
SC two Judges hold PTI not eligible for reserved seats in dissenting note
-
Business 2 days ago
Gold price jumps by Rs2,400 per tola in Pakistan
-
World 1 day ago
32 killed, 63 hurt in Somali beach attack
-
Crime 2 days ago
PTI leader gunned down in Lahore
-
Pakistan 1 day ago
NA passes resolution, urges global action to end Israeli brutalities in Palestine
-
Business 1 day ago
Dollar loses value against Rupee in Interbank market