The Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (Wispap) has formally requested the interior ministry to extend the deadline for Virtual Private Network (VPN) registration, citing the need to facilitate greater compliance among users adapting to the new process.
VPNs are commonly used worldwide to access restricted or inaccessible content. In Pakistan, their usage has significantly increased due to bans on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter) and other websites. However, following disruptions that rendered VPNs non-functional earlier this month, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced plans to restrict VPN usage, citing concerns over access to pornographic and blasphemous content.
On November 15, the interior ministry directed the PTA to block “illegal VPNs” nationwide, citing their potential misuse by terrorists to aid violent activities. Subsequently, PTA Chairman Retired Major General Hafeezur Rehman informed the Senate Standing Committee on IT that unregistered VPNs would be disabled after the November 30 registration deadline.
In a letter shared today, Wispap emphasized that extending the deadline would enable broader compliance and allow more time for public awareness campaigns to educate users on the importance of registering their VPNs.
While commending the government’s initiatives to enhance cybersecurity, Wispap highlighted the role of associations like itself and the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@sha) in streamlining the registration process. It stated that an extension would help build trust with users who are beginning to understand the security benefits of compliance.
“This step would support the government’s objectives while ensuring widespread adherence to the VPN registration framework,” Wispap asserted.
The association praised the government’s recognition of the risks posed by unregistered VPN servers, which are increasingly exploited by hackers to steal sensitive data. It further noted that the simplified registration process has already encouraged hesitant users to comply.
Wispap reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the PTA and the ministry to address challenges and protect Pakistan’s digital landscape. The proposed extension, it said, would ultimately safeguard citizens while reinforcing the integrity of the country’s cybersecurity measures.
