THIS is with reference to the report ‘Plan in works to limit VPN use: PTA chief’ (Aug 2). The government’s decision aiming at whitelisting a certain number of virtual private networks (VPNs) and blocking others will further alienate the techno- logical talent across the country.

As such, VPNs are not just tools for bypassing blocked sites; they are essential for remote work globally, including Pakistan. Many international companies hire Pakistani tech professionals, and VPNs are a crucial part of ensuring secure as well as easy access to these companies’ internal systems.

Along with these global companies, freelance clients also often use VPNs to provide secure and stable access to their data. The post-Covid culture of remote work has opened new avenues for tech-savy professionals to work with any company anywhere from their respective homes.

Such remote tech-based jobs increase the potential of information technology (IT) professionals, and represent a huge and significant source of IT-related remittances for the country. However, the decision by the Pakistan Telecommuni-cation Authority (PTA) to whitelist only a selected few VPNs could have a major blowback effect to all those working remotely with such companies.

Moreover, considering the red tape and bureaucratic sluggishness, many com- panies will prefer to hire freelancers from some other country instead of lining up to whitelist their VPNs with the PTA. This could severely impact the country’s IT sector, diminishing opportunities for skilled professionals, and reducing the influx of foreign income. In essence, the lack of reliable payment gateways has already posed significant challenges for Pakistani IT experts striving to compete in today’s globalised market.

Unfortunately, instead of creating new opportunities and providing a tech-first culture in the country, the government is moving towards restrictive policies that could stifle innovation, hinder the growth of the IT sector, and push talented people to seek opportunities elsewhere.

Muhammad Usama
Gujranwala

Published in Dawn, August 18th, 2024