PTA chief denies blocking VPNs, highlights telecom growth 

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Maj-Gen (retd) Hafeezur Rehman on Monday claimed that no Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) have been blocked in the country.

Speaking at a press briefing in Islamabad, Rehman said, “We have not blocked any VPNs to date. I earlier told the National Assembly that while we have the ability to block VPNs, we have no intention of doing so. In fact, we have extended VPN registration to mobile phone numbers as well.” 

PTA Director General of Commercial Affairs Arif Sargana unveiled the PTA’s annual digital report during the press briefing.

The report highlighted a 17 per cent growth in the telecom sector despite economic challenges.

Sargana also noted Pakistan’s inclusion among the world’s top 40 countries in cyber security rankings and significant female participation in digital inclusion. 

Also read: PTA launches new VPN registration portal amid deadline debate

Maj-Gen (retd) Rehman said that the number of registered VPNs in Pakistan has surpassed 33,000, emphasising that registered users face no restrictions. “We only block services based on court orders or government directives,” he explained, adding that fixed-line data services were not disrupted. 

Foreign Investment Declines 

Commenting on foreign direct investment, Rehman noted that the decline was not limited to the telecom sector but it reflected a broader trend in the national economy vis-à-vis foreign direct investment. 

During the press briefing, PTA officials highlighted punitive measures against companies providing substandard services.

“So far, fines totaling approximately Rs680 million have been imposed. However, recoveries remain low as companies often appeal to legal forums,” they stated. 

VPN Policies and Registration Updates 

The PTA announced plans to register companies offering VPN services to general users, a practice already implemented in India.

Rehman said, “Registered VPN providers will be required to sign non-disclosure agreements and maintain logs for a year. We aim to introduce a VPN provider licence starting January 1, 2025.” 

For mobile VPN registration, users now only need their mobile numbers instead of static IP addresses. Registered devices are then whitelisted to avoid disruptions, the PTA officials explained. 

Focus on Connectivity and Technology 

Rehman also mentioned the installation of Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) in 38 cities across Pakistan, signaling improvements in internet services.

He said that the PTA was implementing a web management system under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) to curb gray traffic. “Websites are only blocked after completing a lawful process and based on court orders or legal violations,” he said. 

He said that the PTA plans to register companies in Special Technology Zones to ensure that services in these zones remain unaffected by government directives. Additionally, a policy to provide mobile phones on installments is under consideration. 

The PTA chairman underscored the regulator’s commitment to enhancing digital infrastructure while balancing economic, legal, and security considerations.