The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has warned users against using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) without registration, saying that the use of secretive modes of communication is a violation of regulations.
“Usage of any mode of communication such as VPN by means of which communication becomes hidden or encrypted is a violation of PTA regulations,” the telecom sector regulator said in a statement.
🔊Usage of any mode of communication such as VPN by means of which communication becomes hidden or encrypted is a violation of PTA regulations. pic.twitter.com/4okPPassSI
— PTA (@PTAofficialpk) September 10, 2022
The authority also said that it has simplified the process of registration. “Now public and private sector organisations, foreign missions, and freelancers who want to use VPNs for their legitimate purposes must register their VPNs by October 31, to avoid disruption,” the statement added.
Also read: PTA, FIA briefing sought on social media rules
The notice said that registration applications will only be accepted through the online link.
VPNs are used to encrypt internet traffic and disguise the users’ online identity. This makes it more difficult for third parties to track a user’s activity online or steal data, according to cybersecurity company Kaspersky Lab.
Earlier in 2020, the PTA had issued the same warning.
COMMENTS (4)
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Welcome to Communism
Is this a joke
This is very disturbing. The fact that this is going unnoticed in international media is not helping. Goodbye Pakistan s democracy hello Chinese communist model.
Do not register. PTA is trying to stifle access to free speech. Time for civil disobedience. Time for change of government and behind the government players.