The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has recently received applications from two more companies seeking official registration as Virtual Private Network (VPN) service providers. This development comes after the regulatory body had already granted licenses to two companies under its class license framework for data services. The initiative is part of PTA’s broader effort to regulate VPN usage within the country and ensure compliance with national security and telecommunication policies.
To further streamline this process, the PTA has set an ambitious target of registering a total of seven VPN service providers by May. Officials have indicated that once this registration phase is successfully completed, the government may proceed with a selective crackdown on unauthorized or non-compliant VPN services. The potential restriction or blocking of VPNs will be determined based on specific criteria that have not yet been publicly disclosed.
At present, there are approximately 40 VPN services operating in Pakistan, many of which function without formal approval. PTA officials have clarified that any final decision regarding the blocking of VPNs will rest with the federal government. They emphasized that while the PTA is responsible for managing the registration process, it does not have the authority to unilaterally shut down VPN services.
The formal registration of VPN service providers in Pakistan officially commenced in December 2024. Companies that successfully secure a license from the PTA will be legally authorized to provide VPN services in the country. This move is seen as a step toward establishing greater oversight of internet traffic, ensuring cybersecurity, and preventing the misuse of VPNs for illegal or unauthorized activities.
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