PTA decides to not block VPNs as November 30 deadline passes

Representational image of a VPN on a mobile phone screen. — Unsplash/File
Representational picture of a VPN on a cell phone display screen. — Unsplash/File
  • Govt decides to increase VPN registration deadline
  • PTA to this point has not issued official notification. 
  • PTA chairman confirms to media govt not blocking VPNs.

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has determined to not block Digital Personal Networks (VPNs) because the deadline for registration of all non-registered VPNs lapsed on Saturday, The Information reported.

Whereas the brand new deadline has not been given, the federal government has determined to grant an extension within the registration of VPNs.

Stakeholders, together with the IT trade and freelancers, have been pushing for an extension of the deadline for the registration.

The PTA, in accordance with sources, has emphasised that VPN registration is essential for enhancing cybersecurity and guaranteeing nationwide safety and knowledge safety.

Earlier, the Ministry of Inside had given a deadline of November 30 for closing down all unregistered VPNs. With out utilizing VPNs, it isn’t doable to run X within the nation.

In current days, disruptions have additionally been witnessed in utilizing WhatsApp with no VPN in sure components of the nation.

The PTA has registered greater than 27,000 VPNs to this point.

The PTA most popular to not situation any official assertion on the VPN situation on Saturday evening. Nonetheless, its Chairman Maj Gen (retd) Hafeez Ur Rehman talked to sure media retailers and confirmed that the PTA was not going to dam VPNs as the federal government determined to grant an extension within the envisaged deadline.

The PTA chairman had advised the Senate Standing Committee on IT final week that each one non-registered VPNs would cease working within the nation after the deadline of Nov 30.

‘Streamlined’ VPN registration course of

In an announcement earlier this month, the PTA had stated that it has streamlined the VPN registration course of for organisations and freelancers.

The telecommunication regulator stated entities comparable to software program homes, name centres, banks, embassies, and freelancers can register their VPNs on-line via the PTA’s official web site.

PTA stated members of the Pakistan Software program Export Board (PSEB) may avail this facility.

It added that the registration entails finishing a web based type and offering primary particulars, together with computerised nationwide identification card (CNIC), firm registration particulars and taxpayer standing.

Freelancers should submit documentation, comparable to a letter or e-mail, verifying their mission or firm affiliation, stated the assertion by the PTA.

Moreover, candidates should present the IP deal with for VPN connectivity. If a hard and fast IP deal with is required, it may be acquired from an Web Service Supplier, it added.