The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has mandated the registration of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) for banks, embassies, IT firms, and freelancers.
On Thursday, the PTA organized a consultation session at its headquarters to discuss the VPN registration and facilitation process. The meeting included key stakeholders such as the CEOs of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) and Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA), the chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (PASHA), and representatives from the Ministry of IT and Telecom (MoIT), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), and the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
A statement released after the session highlighted PTA’s commitment to supporting legitimate VPN users by ensuring data security and smooth internet access, particularly for software houses, BPO firms, banks, embassies, and freelancers. Stakeholders deliberated on ways to streamline VPN registration while safeguarding business operations and secure internet services. PASHA acknowledged PTA’s facilitation efforts but emphasized the need for sufficient time for registration and consultation on unregistered VPNs to prevent disruptions.
Speaking to the media in Islamabad, PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman clarified that enforcement against unregistered VPN users would not commence immediately after November 30. He explained that extending the registration deadline falls under the government’s jurisdiction, while the PTA’s role is limited to implementing directives and policies. “The government decides policies, and the PTA ensures their execution,” he stated.
At a youth safety seminar organized by TikTok, Rehman dispelled misconceptions about VPN bans, asserting that many countries regulate VPN usage and Pakistan is no exception. He pointed out that the country registered its first VPN in December 2010, giving users 15 years to comply with registration requirements. Rehman also stressed the importance of VPNs for business purposes and reiterated that regulating their use is a global standard.
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Discussing complaints about unethical and anti-state online content, Rehman noted that such concerns are forwarded to social media platforms for prompt removal. “Ensuring children’s futures is a shared responsibility. While Article 19 of the Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, it also sets cultural boundaries,” he added.
State Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja, speaking at the same seminar, highlighted the growing challenges of online security for children. She referenced international efforts, such as legislation in Australia and the United States, to enhance children’s digital safety. “Protecting children in the digital world is critical as cybersecurity concerns rise daily,” she remarked.
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