New Date for VPN Suspension Yet to Be Announced
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has decided to extend the registration deadline for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), which had initially lapsed at midnight on November 30. However, no new deadline for VPN registration or suspension has been announced.
The Ministry of Interior had earlier declared its intent to block all unregistered VPNs by mid-November, later providing a two-week grace period to allow users to comply with registration requirements.
As the revised deadline expired, PTA Chairman Maj Gen (Retd) Hafeez Ur Rehman confirmed that VPNs would not be blocked for the time being, as the government has decided to extend the registration period. However, no official statement was issued by the PTA regarding the matter.
Growing Demand for VPN Access and Registration
VPNs are widely used across the globe to bypass content restrictions. In Pakistan, their use surged earlier this year after authorities banned access to certain social media platforms due to “national security” concerns.
Stakeholders, including IT professionals and freelancers, have urged the government to extend the registration period, citing the critical role VPNs play in their work. The PTA has so far registered over 27,000 VPNs, emphasizing that the registration process is vital for improving cybersecurity, ensuring national security, and protecting data.
Streamlined Registration Process
The PTA has simplified the VPN registration process for various entities, including software houses, call centers, banks, embassies, and freelancers. These individuals and organizations can register their VPNs through the PTA’s official website.
The registration process involves submitting an online form and providing essential documents, such as a computerized national identity card (CNIC), company registration details, and taxpayer information.
Freelancers are required to provide documentation verifying their association with a project or company. Applicants must also submit the IP address for VPN connectivity. Those needing a fixed IP address can obtain one from their Internet Service Provider.
This initiative aims to ensure seamless registration while addressing the concerns of professionals reliant on VPNs for secure and efficient operations.
