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ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) launched a new registration portal for virtual private networks (VPNs) on Tuesday with the objective of assuring a secure environment for Pakistan’s expanding IT and e-commerce sectors. A press release stated that the project was a component of a consultation session aimed at discussing the framework for VPN registration.
In Pakistan, people often use virtual private networks (VPNs) to access geo-blocked or otherwise restricted content, especially on X (previously Twitter) and similar services. A new registration system has been implemented in response to nationwide concerns regarding “restricted access” to VPN services and subpar internet speed.
Digital rights groups have criticized the interruptions, claiming the government is implementing stricter surveillance and censorship tactics. In response, the PTA said the access problems were due to a “technical glitch” and not intentional throttling, and it advised VPN users to register their services.
Members of the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), and the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoIT&T) were present during the consultation. At the meeting, representatives from the PTA unveiled ipregistration.pta.gov.pk, a new website where authorized VPN users, such as IT firms and independent contractors, can sign up for the service.
In a statement, the PTA reaffirmed its dedication to developing Pakistan’s digital economy and stressed that the new procedure will help in providing uninterrupted access for IT sector stakeholders. Concerns were also raised about how VPNs could be used for illegal activities. As a preventive measure to avoid problems, businesses and individuals were asked to register their VPNs.
The statement ended, “This initiative reflects PTA’s commitment to maintaining a secure, accessible, and compliant digital environment, supporting the IT sector while safeguarding national security.”
This comes after the PTA made initial efforts in August to limit VPN use, mainly to prevent users from accessing the social media platform X, which is banned. The platform was prohibited in September owing to national security concerns, according to Information Minister Attaullah Tarar. He cited the platform’s use by separatists and terrorists against Pakistan. Contrary to popular belief, VPNs were not being blocked, as the PTA made clear at the time.
