PTA rolls out VPN registration process to ensure ‘uninterrupted access’

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) on Wednesday rolled out a virtual private networks (VPNs) registration process to ensure uninterrupted access for IT companies, freelancers and other stakeholders, the regulator said in a statement on Wednesday.

The development came as the regulatory body reportedly initiated the process to block unregistered VPNs in Pakistan to "regulate internet security and ensure the safety of users".

Sources within the PTA had said that the unregistered VPNs pose a significant security risk, as they may allow unauthorised access to sensitive data. Moreover, they could also potentially provide access to illegal content.

VPNs are commonly used worldwide to bypass restricted content.

In Pakistan, for instance, citizens have used VPNs to access the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) which has been banned for several months.

According to PTA, a consultation session on the VPN registration framework took place today which was attended by representatives from the Ministry of IT & Telecommunication (MoIT&T), Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and Pakistan IT Association (P@SHA).

The session aimed to foster a secure environment for the IT and ecommerce sectors in Pakistan.

"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.

It said that the simplified framework "supports uninterrupted access for IT companies, freelancers, and other stakeholders, reinforcing PTA’s commitment to Pakistan’s expanding digital economy".

During the session, participants also addressed concerns about potential misuse for illegal activities.

As a proactive measure, companies and freelancers will be encouraged to register their VPNs to ensure smooth operations and mitigate disruptions, said the statement.

"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," it added.

Earlier this week, The News had reported that more than two dozen VPNs were temporarily blocked by the government during a six-hour trial of firewall, which marked a significant step in internet regulation in the country.

The temporary blockage — that took place between 4pm and 10pm on Sunday (November 10) — was the first instance where a government firewall noticeably impacted internet users across the country.

The federal government is implementing an internet firewall to monitor and regulate content and social media platforms, however, the officials deny the use of the firewall for censorship.