Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) confirms whitelisting VPNs to ensure the smooth and secure functioning of IT services and businesses in the country. PTA confirms whitelisting VPNs in order to regulate them by permitting only authorized networks and blocking unauthorized ones.
PTA Confirms Whitelisting VPNs
In a recent parliamentary session, PTA Chairman retired Major General Hafeezur Rehman elaborated on the authority’s plans to whitelist VPNs through an automated process. He emphasized that the initiative is designed to support the continuous and secure operation of IT services and online businesses.
Rehman stated that once the policy is in place, only whitelisted VPNs will function in Pakistan, with non-compliant VPNs being blocked, this approach aims to prevent any disruption to the numerous IT businesses relying on VPNs for their operations.
Secure IT Services
In response to recent media speculations about potential VPN blockages, PTA clarified that no such measures had been taken without government direction. The authority reiterated that all blocking activities are conducted in accordance with Pakistan’s legal framework and guidelines.
The PTA also emphasized that the whitelisting process, available on both the PTA and Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) websites, is automated to facilitate smooth and secure IT operations. The use of VPNs has surged in Pakistan, particularly for accessing services like X (formerly Twitter), which has been restricted since February 19, 2024.
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