The PTA highlighted that any such blocking is conducted legally, following directives from the Government of Pakistan and adhering to the established legal framework.
According to the PTA, VPNs can be whitelisted through an automated process available on both the PTA and Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) websites. This initiative is designed to support and safeguard IT services and online businesses in the country, ensuring that legitimate users can continue their activities without interruption.
The regulator’s clarification follows a statement by chairman Major General (R) Hafeez Rahman to the Senate Standing Committee on IT & Telecom. On Thursday, he mentioned that the PTA has initiated the whitelisting of VPNs to prevent unauthorized services from operating within the country.
He also noted that while it is possible to block VPNs entirely across Pakistan, such an action would negatively impact businesses.
