Amidst reports of a potential ban on virtual private networks (VPNs), the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has clarified that it is implementing a whitelisting process for VPNs via an “automated process” to ensure the seamless and secure operation of IT services and online businesses.
This clarification follows a statement by PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman two days earlier, in which he connected the lifting of a ban on X, formerly known as Twitter, to directives from the government.
During a briefing to the Senate’s Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, Rehman confirmed that the PTA is whitelisting VPNs, allowing only specific proxy networks to operate in Pakistan.
Contrary to some media reports suggesting an impending blanket ban on VPNs, the PTA issued an official statement clarifying, “No such action has been taken, and any blocking is carried out solely under the directions of the government of Pakistan, in accordance with legal frameworks and guidelines.”
The statement continued, “For the smooth and secure functioning of IT services and online businesses, VPNs are being whitelisted through an automated process available on the PTA and PSEB websites.”
It is important to note that Pakistani authorities suspended access to X in the country on February 17, citing national security concerns. However, the platform remains accessible through various proxy networks. Last month, the federal government defended the ban on X in a response submitted to the Sindh High Court, asserting that the action was “legitimate” in addressing national security issues.
