VPN registration: PTA urged for sufficient time, consultation to avoid disruption

Amid the looming November 30 registration deadline, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has been urged to ensure sufficient time for registration and consultation on unregistered Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to avoid disruption.

The request, as per a press release issued by the PTA on Thursday, was made by the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) during a consultation session hosted by the regulatory authority at its headquarters.

The huddle also included stakeholders, including the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB) chief executive officer (CEO), Pakistan Freelancers Association (PAFLA) chairman, representatives from the Ministry of IT and Telecom (MoIT), Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and P@SHA chairman.

The session comes against the backdrop of the incumbent government's decision to limit the use of VPNs to only those which are duly registered, whereas those which aren't are set to face a crackdown commencing on December 1.

The prospective action is to be interpreted against reports suggesting that Pakistanis make up to 20 million daily attempts to access blocked explicit content using unregistered VPNs, despite government restrictions. 

A successful trial of VPN blocking has already been conducted, and a second trial is planned to ensure readiness for the full-scale shutdown.

The PTA has maintained that unregistered VPNs are considered a significant security risk, as they can be exploited to access sensitive data and facilitate criminal activities.

During the consultative gathering, the regulatory body reaffirmed its commitment to enabling legitimate VPN users by ensuring data security and seamless internet access, especially for software houses, BPO firms, banks, embassies, and freelancers.

Furthermore, the stakeholders discussed mechanisms to improve VPN registration while ensuring business continuity and secure internet services.

Registration process

The PTA's registration process involves completing an online form and providing basic details, including CNIC, company registration details, and taxpayer status.

Freelancers must submit documentation, such as a letter or email, verifying their project or company association.

Additionally, applicants must provide the IP address for VPN connectivity. If a fixed IP address is required, it can be acquired from an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

The registration process is free, and approvals are typically granted within 8-10 hours of submission.

Any individual requiring a VPN for commercial purposes can apply under the "Freelancer" category and needs to provide the required information, including supporting evidence from the employer.