After a controversy over blocking virtual private networks (VPNs) and growing public anger in Pakistan, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Wednesday rolled out a streamlined process for legitimate users to register their VPNs.
The move came days after the national regulator started the process of blocking unregistered VPNs in the country to regulate internet security and ensure the safety of users.
VPNs are widely used around the world to access content that may be inaccessible or blocked for internet users in their home country. In Pakistan, VPNs are frequently used to access X, among other restricted websites.
The PTA held a consultation session on the VPN registration framework yesterday. Representatives from the Ministry of IT & Telecommunication (MoIT&T), the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and the Pakistan IT Association (P@SHA) attended the session.
According to a statement issued by the PTA, the session aimed to foster a secure environment for the IT and e-commerce sectors in Pakistan.
“The PTA introduced a streamlined VPN registration process, allowing legitimate users to register their VPNs through a new online platform at ipregistration.pta.gov.pk,” the statement further said.
The regulatory authority claimed that this 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 the potential use of VPNs for illegal activities.