PTA launches 2nd VPN closure exercise

Islamabad: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Tuesday launched a second trial aimed at blocking unregistered virtual private networks (VPNs) used to access restricted websites.

According to reports, this two-day exercise is part of the PTA's efforts to regulate illegal VPN usage. The authority has set November 30 as the final deadline for VPN registration and plans to act against unregistered VPNs starting December 1.

The PTA recently concluded its first trial run of VPN closures. It has mandated banks, embassies, IT firms, and freelancers to register their VPNs, with approximately 25,000 VPNs already registered to date.

On November 21, the PTA hosted a consultation session at its headquarters, focusing on the processes of VPN registration and facilitation.

Key stakeholders participated, including representatives from the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), Pakistan Software Houses Association (PASHA), and officials from the Ministry of IT and Telecom (MoIT), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

According to a statement released after the meeting, the PTA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting legitimate VPN users while ensuring data security and uninterrupted internet access for software houses, business process outsourcing (BPO) firms, banks, embassies, and freelancers.

Participants discussed ways to improve the VPN registration process while maintaining business continuity and secure internet services. PASHA appreciated the PTA's efforts but urged the regulator to provide adequate time for VPN registration and engage in further consultations to avoid disruptions.

Speaking to the media in Islamabad, PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman noted that any decision to extend the registration deadline lies with the government.

"The PTA's role is limited to regulation and implementation. It is the government that issues directives and policies, while the PTA ensures their execution," he said.

Addressing a seminar on youth safety organized by TikTok, the chairman earlier dismissed the perception that VPNs are being outrightly banned in Pakistan.

He pointed out that many countries regulate VPN usage and that the first VPN in Pakistan was registered back in December 2010. He added that stakeholders have had 15 years to register their VPNs.

Rehman acknowledged the importance of VPNs for business purposes, adding that VPNs are regulated globally. Regarding complaints of unethical and anti-state content, he said such issues are forwarded to social media platforms with requests for swift removal.

"Ensuring the safety of children's futures is a shared responsibility. Article 19 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression but within the bounds of cultural and societal norms," he said.