JournalismPakistan.com | Published August 28, 2024 at 04:42 pm | JP Staff Report
Join our WhatsApp channel
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.
April 30, 2025: Freedom of expression in Pakistan is under threat, as the 2025 Freedom Network report reveals increased arrests, censorship, and legal restrictions following amendments to PECA, posing serious risks to journalists and democratic values.
April 30, 2025: Dawn has criticized the Indian media's calls for war and condemned the banning of 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, urging a rational response after the Pahalgam attack that left 26 dead.
April 28, 2025: India has banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, including major news outlets and individual journalists, following the deadly Pahalgam attack. Tensions escalate as Islamabad demands a neutral probe.
April 23, 2025: Pakistani journalists respond in unison to a post hinting at a possible Indian military strike. Citing the 2019 ‘Swift Retort,’ they warn of a stronger response if provoked again.
April 21, 2025: After being expelled from PTI, MNA Sher Afzal Marwat launches personal attacks on journalists and Aleema Khan, sparking outrage on social media over his offensive remarks.
April 21, 2025: Journalist Sanaullah Khan reveals that the FIA has launched a financial crackdown on YouTubers by freezing the bank accounts of journalists and their family members—raising serious concerns over freedom of expression and legal process.
April 20, 2025: Dr. Nauman Niaz launched his fifteenth book, In A Different Realm: Story of Quadruple and Triple Centuries 1876–2025, at an elegant Islamabad event, reflecting on cricket’s rarest feats and his journey as a scholar of the game.
April 11, 2025: Sindhi journalist AD Shar was brutally murdered in Khairpur, Sindh. His body was found dumped on Handiyari Link Road. PFUJ has declared a three-day mourning period and demanded justice.
April 23, 2025 Discover Dr. Nauman Niaz’s In A Different Realm: Story of Quadruple & Triple Centuries 1876–2025, a profound exploration of cricket's most monumental innings, blending historical analysis with poetic narrative.
April 22, 2025 Once a beacon of hope for Pakistan's cricket revival, the Pakistan Super League now grapples with stagnation and moral compromises. Can this cultural symbol reclaim its lost soul?
April 21, 2025 An Italian newspaper, Il Foglio, successfully published a month-long AI-written insert and praised its irony and analytical abilities, while affirming that AI will complement—not replace—quality journalism.
April 03, 2025 The International Press Institute (IPI) and International Media Support (IMS) invite nominations for the 2025 World Press Freedom Hero and Free Media Pioneer Awards. Recognizing courageous journalists and innovative media, the awards will be presented at IPI’s 75th-anniversary World Congress in Vienna. Submit your nominations by April 30, 2025.
April 01, 2025 Photojournalist Suresh Rajak was burned alive while covering a violent protest in Kathmandu. The IFJ and its affiliates condemn the attack and call for an urgent investigation to hold the perpetrators accountable.