The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is set to whitelist specific Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), limiting their availability in Pakistan.
This was announced by PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman during a Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat meeting, chaired by Rana Mahmoodul Hasan, in Islamabad on Thursday.
Decrease in VPN Usage
During the meeting, Chairman Rehman highlighted the decline in VPN usage across the country. Despite the availability of VPNs, the usage of platform X in Pakistan has dropped by 70%. “Currently, only 30% of people use VPNs,” he noted, indicating the potential for VPNs to be blocked in the future.
The PTA’s move to whitelist VPNs aims to regulate the use of these networks, ensuring only approved VPNs can be accessed in Pakistan. This initiative is part of a broader effort to manage internet access and security within the country.
Internet Access and 5G Auction Plans
Rehman also shared insights into the country’s internet penetration, stating that approximately 56% of the population has access to the internet. Furthermore, he announced plans for a 5G auction expected to take place in March-April next year.
This auction is anticipated to enhance the digital landscape in Pakistan, offering faster connectivity and improved technological infrastructure.
Taxation of Content Creators
Addressing a query about the taxation of content creators earning from international advertisements, Rehman clarified that there is currently no legislation on taxing such income. This gap highlights the need for policy development to regulate and tax digital earnings effectively.
Discussion on Platform X Ban
The PTA chairman also touched upon the ongoing ban on the social media platform X, which was suspended in Pakistan on February 17 due to national security concerns. Despite the ban, the platform remains accessible via VPNs.
The ban has led to multiple petitions in the Sindh High Court (SHC), challenging the restrictions and the intermittent suspension of internet services. Last month, the federal government defended the ban in its response to the SHC, arguing it was necessary for national security.
During the Senate meeting, Senator Abdul Qadir inquired about the potential lifting of the ban on platform X. In response, Chairman Rehman stated, “We will lift the ban on X when the government instructs us to do so.”
He further mentioned that only 7% of complaints sent to the platform in the last three months have been addressed, highlighting X’s low compliance rate among social media platforms.
Rehman emphasized that the PTA blocks social media platforms only at the government’s request. He added that the authority contacts platforms about complaints related to content that violates Pakistani law, seeking compliance with local regulations.