Pakistan PTA Plans VPN Regulation

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is advancing a plan to regulate VPN usage by whitelisting specific networks while blocking others, as revealed in a recent Senate committee meeting. PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman indicated that this policy aims to manage internet access and security in the country, particularly following the significant rise in VPN use after the blocking of the social media platform X. Despite the ban, it is reported that 30% of users still access X through VPNs, while overall usage of the platform has dropped by 70%. Analysts warn that such regulations could negatively impact Pakistan's IT sector, which relies heavily on VPNs for various operations. Previous attempts to regulate VPNs have not been successful, raising questions about the effectiveness of the new strategy. Additionally, plans for a 5G auction are set for early next year, aimed at enhancing the digital infrastructure in Pakistan.