PTA to Whitelist VPNs Amid National Security Concerns

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is set to whitelist Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), restricting access to only approved VPNs within the country. This announcement was made by PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, chaired by Rana Mahmoodul Hasan, on August 2, 2024.

Rehman highlighted that currently, only 30% of Pakistan’s population uses VPNs. He stressed the potential for VPNs to be blocked if not whitelisted. This decision comes amidst the ongoing suspension of social media platforms in Pakistan since February 17, due to national security concerns. However, these platforms remain accessible via VPNs.

During the meeting, Rehman mentioned that the ban on X (formerly known as Twitter) could be lifted upon government request. Despite the availability of VPNs, the usage of X has decreased by 70%. Additionally, he noted that approximately 56% of the population has internet access, and a 5G auction is anticipated for March-April next year.

Rehman also revealed that only 7% of complaints submitted to X in the past three months have been addressed, making it the platform with the lowest compliance rate among all social media platforms. He clarified that social media platforms are blocked solely at the government’s request, and the PTA contacts these platforms regarding any complaints related to violations of Pakistani law.