KARACHI: The Pakistan Telecom Authority has again clarified that virtual private networks (VPNs) are not being blocked in the country.
In a statement posted on its social media accounts on Tuesday, the regulator rejected media reports that it is planning to block VPNs.
The PTA, however, requested IT companies, software houses, freelancers, banks, and other businesses to “register” their VPNs to ensure uninterrupted internet services “in case of any disruption”.
The regulator added that businesses can register their VPN through the websites of PTA and Pakistan Software Export Board.
The process is free of cost and takes two to three days, the statement added.
As the use of VPN surged across the country due to internet disruption and blocking of X, PTA has amped up its efforts to “register” proxy networks.
On Monday, PTA Chairman retired Maj Gen Hafeezur Rehman told a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on IT that more than 20,000 VPNs have already been registered.
Published in Dawn, September 11th, 2024
