Pakistan Completes Second Trial of Controversial Firewall

Pakistan has completed the second trial run of a controversial firewall aimed at enhancing national security by blocking unwanted content, particularly on social media. The installation, which involved internet service providers equipped with deep packet inspection capabilities, has led to significant slowdowns in internet and mobile services, with users experiencing a reduction in speeds by 30% to 40%. Local netizens and digital rights organizations have criticized the firewall's implementation, fearing adverse impacts on internet-based businesses and economic repercussions. Despite assurances that social media services will return to normal speeds within two to three days, concerns persist over the firewall's potential for increased surveillance and censorship. The federal government has invested over Rs30 billion in this project, which has been met with skepticism amid ongoing disruptions. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority has yet to issue an official statement regarding the situation, leaving users in uncertainty about future internet access.