The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has initiated the blocking of unregistered VPNs across the country to improve data security. According to PTA sources, these VPNs are being temporarily blocked through a firewall and may be whitelisted after review. Unregistered VPNs are considered a security risk due to their potential to access sensitive data and enable access to illegal or objectionable content.
Key Points on PTA’s VPN Blockage
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| VPN Registration | Began in 2010; around 20,500 VPNs registered to date. |
| Number of Registered Companies | Over 1,422 companies have officially registered VPNs. |
| Reason for Blockage | To safeguard public and organizational data and prevent access to illegal content. |
| Countries with Similar Policies | China, Russia, UAE, Qatar, and others also restrict unregistered VPNs. |
| Business VPN Use | Permitted in Pakistan, with no restrictions on business-related VPN services. |
Impact on Users
Many users in Pakistan report issues with free VPNs, often used to access social media sites like X. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s decision to ban X has led many to rely on VPNs, despite official restrictions. PTA aims to speed up VPN registration and encourages businesses to register their VPNs for uninterrupted services.
This move aligns Pakistan with global practices on VPN regulation, enhancing cybersecurity while allowing legitimate business use.