The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has launched a new initiative to allow freelancers and internet users without a static IP address to register their Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) against their mobile numbers. The move is part of the PTA’s effort to simplify the VPN registration process and support the IT industry.
In a statement on Saturday, the PTA announced that over 31,000 VPNs have already been registered and encouraged users to register their VPNs through its website. This decision comes after security concerns raised by the government prompted the PTA to crack down on unregistered VPNs.
Originally, the PTA had set a November 30 deadline for VPN registration, but later extended this deadline and confirmed that it would not block VPNs after the expiration of the initial deadline. A two-week “grace period” was granted to allow unregistered VPNs to meet the registration requirements.
Chairman of the PTA, Maj Gen (Retd) Hafeez Ur Rehman, confirmed that the government decided to extend the deadline and not block VPNs immediately. VPN usage has surged in Pakistan, particularly after the government’s ban on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) earlier this year due to “national security” concerns.
The PTA emphasizes that registering VPNs is essential for improving cybersecurity, national security, and data protection. The registration process requires users to provide basic details, including their CNIC, company registration, taxpayer status, and the IP address they use for VPN connectivity. Freelancers will also need to submit documents verifying their association with a project or company.
