PTA registers 20,437 VPNs amid internet slowdown controversy

JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 28 August 2024 | JP Staff Report

The PTA has registered over 20,000 VPNs as part of its efforts to manage internet content amid recent criticisms of internet slowdowns. Concerns were raised in the National Assembly regarding privacy and government control over online spaces.
Summary

ISLAMABAD—The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has implemented a Web Monitoring System (WMS) to manage internet content and registered 20,437 Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) as part of its effort to "whitelist" VPNs, according to information presented to the National Assembly on Monday.

During the question hour, MNA Shahida Rehmani raised concerns about the registration of VPNs, blocked apps in Pakistan, and measures taken by the government to ensure the privacy of internet users. The PTA has recently faced public criticism due to widespread internet disruptions.

Minister of State for Information Technology Shaza Fatima refuted claims that the government was responsible for the slowdown, attributing it to the heavy use of VPNs by a "large population," which she said strained the network. However, activists argue that the government is moving towards a China-style national internet firewall to exert greater control over online spaces and suppress dissent.

The National Assembly was informed that under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, the PTA has the authority to block or remove content deemed necessary for the "glory of Islam" or the "integrity, security, or defense of Pakistan." Despite geo-blocking at the gateway level, the minister in charge of the cabinet division acknowledged that such content could still be accessed via VPNs.

The minister further explained that the PTA has been registering VPNs since December 2010. VPNs are used by legitimate businesses such as software houses, call centers, and foreign missions for the secure management of their private networks. Of the 20,437 registered VPNs, 19,840 are used by 1,286 companies, while 180 are used by 136 freelancers.

Additionally, the National Assembly was informed that the PTA has deployed a Web Monitoring System within its technical capabilities to manage internet content. So far, the PTA has blocked 2,369 URLs and 183 mobile applications involved in exposing personal data and identity information.

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