The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) introduced a streamlined process allowing legitimate users to register their virtual private networks (VPNs), on November 12, during a consultation session on its virtual private networks (VPNs) registration framework.
According to the PTA, this new registration process allows legitimate users, including IT companies and freelancers, to register their VPNs.
“PTA introduced a streamlined VPN registration process, allowing legitimate users to register their VPNs through a new online platform at ipregistration.pta.gov.pk,” said the statement issued by the PTA on November 13.
The step is designed to “support uninterrupted access for IT companies, freelancers, and other stakeholders,” reinforcing the PTA’s commitment to Pakistan’s digital economy, the statement added.
Concerns were also raised about VPNs potentially being used for “illegal activities.” The PTA responded by encouraging companies and freelancers to register their VPNs as a preventive measure, aiming to ensure smooth operations and reduce risks of disruption.
“This consultation process underscores PTA’s dedication to creating a safe, accessible, and compliant digital landscape, empowering the country’s IT sector while safeguarding national security,” the statement emphasized.
The meeting brought together representatives from the Ministry of IT & Telecommunication (MoIT&T), the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), who discussed the framework’s potential impact on the IT sector.
The session followed reports of restricted VPN access and poor internet connectivity from users nationwide. Many digital rights activists criticized the government, calling these disruptions an attempt to “enforce strict censorship and surveillance over citizens.”
However, the PTA clarified that these interruptions were due to a “technical glitch,” denying any deliberate throttling of VPNs. It also urged users to register their VPNs to avoid service disruptions.
The PTA’s stance on VPN regulation follows recent efforts to curb access to the banned social media platform X.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated in September that the ban was due to national security issues, asserting that “separatists and terrorists” were exploiting the platform against Pakistan.
The PTA, however, dispelled rumors of a VPN ban, reiterating that VPNs are not being blocked but should be registered for compliant use.